What is winnowing? Explain with an example.

Winnowing is a method of separation used to separate lighter particles from heavier ones with the help of air. It is based on the difference in weight between the components of a mixture.

In this process, the mixture is dropped from a height or exposed to blowing air. The lighter particles, like husk, are carried away by the wind, while the heavier particles, like grains, fall straight down.

A common example is separating husk from wheat or rice grains after threshing. Farmers often use natural wind or a fan to carry out this process.

In simple terms, winnowing uses air to remove lighter impurities from heavier useful materials.