What does decant mean?

• A. Filter the solid from the mixture
• B. Filter the liquid
• C. Pour the liquid leaving the solid behind
• D. Boil the mixture

Answer: (C)

Decanting means pouring off the liquid from a mixture after the solid has settled to the bottom, so the liquid is drawn off while the solid remains in the original container. This relies on the solid being heavier and settling, and you do it carefully to avoid disturbing the sediment. It’s different from filtering (which uses a barrier to separate solid and liquid) and from boiling (which involves heating).