Handpicking
Handpicking is one of the most common methods of separation used in our homes. As the name suggests, it involves picking out substances by hand.
When is it used?
This method is effective under specific conditions:
- Visually Distinct: The components to be separated must differ in size, colour, or shape.
- Small Quantity: The quantity of the mixture should not be very large.
- Low Impurity Ratio: The quantity of impurities (like stones in rice) is small compared to the useful substance.
Tip
Example: Malli’s Nani separates small stones and husk from wheat grains by hand because the stones look different and are few in number.
How it Works
Imagine a plate of rice mixed with a few black stones. Because the stones are black and the rice is white, your eyes can easily spot them, and your fingers can pick them out.
Applications:
- Removing stones, husk, or dirt from grains like wheat, rice, and pulses.
- Separating whole spices (like black pepper) from a dish (like pulao) if you don’t want to eat them.
After handpicking: