What process involves separating larger particles from powders or loose solids using mesh?

The process of sieving is specifically designed to separate larger particles from powders or loose solids by using mesh or a sieve. This technique allows smaller particles to pass through while retaining larger ones, effectively sorting materials based on size. Sieving is commonly applied in both cooking and food technology to achieve uniform particle size, which can affect the texture and quality of food products. For instance, in baking, sieving flour can help aerate it and remove any lumps.

The other processes, while similar in intent, do not specifically use a mesh to perform the separation based on particle size. Filtering typically involves using a porous material or filter paper to separate solids from liquids but is not confined to the size separation of solids. Straining, similar to filtering, usually pertains to the separation of larger food items from liquids but does not focus on the size of the solids in the same way sieving does. Centrifugation employs centrifugal force to separate substances based on density differences rather than size alone, making it distinct from the process of sieving.