Would stirring separate particles?

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In summary, the conversation discusses whether stirring a fluid would separate the particles. The person asking the question uses the example of stirring tea to integrate sugar and concludes that stirring would not separate particles. The other person asks for clarification on what type of particles are being referred to and provides an example of air particles in a box being stirred. The question ultimately asks if stirring would spread out or clump up the particles.
  • #1
GBA13
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Homework Statement


Would stirring a fluid separate the particles?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


You stir tea to integrate the tea and the sugar so I would say that stirring would not separate the particles.

Any help?

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
You need to be more specific. What do you mean by "separate the particles"?
 
  • #3
Orodruin said:
You need to be more specific. What do you mean by "separate the particles"?

I mean that if you wanted to spread out the particles would you stir the fluid or not.
 
  • #4
You will need to define what particles you are referring to.
 
  • #5
So if you put some air particles in a box and they spread out fairly evenly over the volume of the box, you then start to stir the particles in the box. Will the particles become more spread out or will they actually start to clump up and get closer together?
 

Related to Would stirring separate particles?

1. Would stirring mix particles together?

Yes, stirring is a physical process that involves the mixing and movement of particles. When you stir a substance, the particles are pushed and pulled, causing them to mix and become evenly distributed.

2. Can stirring separate particles?

Yes, stirring can also separate particles. When you stir a mixture, the particles with different sizes and densities will separate due to the force of the stirring. This process is known as centrifugation and is often used in laboratories to separate different components of a mixture.

3. How does stirring affect the rate of separation?

The rate of separation through stirring depends on several factors such as the speed and direction of the stirring, the size and density of the particles, and the viscosity of the substance. Generally, a higher stirring speed and more vigorous stirring will result in a faster rate of separation.

4. Is stirring the only way to separate particles?

No, there are other methods of separating particles such as filtration, sedimentation, and decantation. The method chosen depends on the properties of the particles and the substance. For example, particles that are larger and denser may be separated by filtration, while particles that are smaller and less dense may be separated through sedimentation.

5. Can stirring cause changes in the properties of particles?

Yes, stirring can cause changes in the properties of particles. For example, when mixing a solution with a catalyst, stirring can help distribute the catalyst evenly and increase its effectiveness. Stirring can also cause changes in the temperature and pressure of a substance, which can affect the properties of the particles.

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