How to Separate a Mixture of Sugar & Water

A mixture of sugar and water is known as a solution. The sugar turns into a liquid but no chemical change has occurred, meaning the two substances making up the mixture can be separated. When separating a mixture of sugar and water, a chemical reaction needs to occur. The mixture of the water and sugar is known as a homogeneous solution.

Things You'll Need

• Heavy cooking pot Stove

Instructions

1. Pour the mixture into the pan, taking care not to splash the liquid. Sugar water can create a sticky mess.

2. Turn on the stove to medium heat. Raising the temperature of the mixture too fast can cause the sugar crystals to burn.

3. Allow the mixture to come to a boil. The water will evaporate. Use caution during this step because steam can cause severe burns.

4. Keep checking the boiling process. When enough water has evaporated, sugar crystals will start to develop along the sides of the pan.

5. Remove the pan from the heat when the water has completely evaporated. Scrape the sugar crystals from the pan.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use caution when working around the stove. The pan, water and sugar crystals will be extremely hot during this process.

References

• School for Champions
• Ask a Scientist