Question

A cyclone separator would be least efficient for separation of _______

• A. Large
• B. Dense
• C. Very fine
• D. Coarse

Hint:

Cyclone separators are efficient for large and dense particles but less efficient for very fine particles because fine particles have low inertia.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept:
A cyclone separator is used to separate solid particles from air or gas using centrifugal force. It is commonly used in pharmaceutical processing to collect dust or powder particles.

Step 1: Working principle.
In a cyclone separator, the particle-laden air enters tangentially and moves in a spiral path. Due to centrifugal force, heavier and larger particles move outward and fall down into the collection chamber.

Step 2: Effect of particle size.
Large, dense, and coarse particles experience stronger centrifugal force. Therefore, they are separated more easily.

Step 3: Why very fine particles are difficult to separate.
Very fine particles have very low mass. Because of their small size and low inertia, the centrifugal force acting on them is weak. They may remain suspended in the air stream and escape with the outgoing air.

Step 4: Final answer.
Thus, a cyclone separator is least efficient for separating very fine particles. \[ \boxed{\text{Very fine}} \]