Explain why the crude oil in an oil spill can be skimmed from the top of the water and collected

Question

Chemistry

Grease

1 March, 00:36

Explain why the crude oil in an oil spill can be skimmed from the top of the water and collected

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Answers (1)

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Gustavo Leach · Answer 1

1) Oil is less dense than water, so naturally it will float on top of water.

2) Oil and water do not mix

So:

Once a layer of oil has formed, it will stay on top of the water where it can be collected