What is decantation?
Decantation is a process used to separate a mixture. It usually involves removing the liquid portion of a substance while leaving behind the sediment. This process is used in a variety of instances. Red wine is a common example of a substance that is decanted. Wastewater may also be processed using this method. Insoluble matter is something that does not dissolve in a liquid. Instead, it tends to float and will generally settle if the substance is left at rest. The purpose of decantation is to separate the liquid from this type of matter.