elutriation A method of grain-size analysis in which the finer grades are separated from coarser and heavier particles by the use of a rising current of air or water, which carries the light particles upwards and allows the heavier grains to sink. By controlling the velocity of the flow, grains of different sizes can be separated.

elutriation A method of analysing the size of grains, in which the finer particles are separated from coarser and heavier ones by the use of a rising current of air or water. This carries the light particles upwards and allows the heavier grains to sink. By controlling the velocity of the flow, grains of different sizes can be separated.