Which is a method for separating incompatible materials?

The method for separating incompatible materials is achieved through maintaining a distance of greater than 20 feet. This approach is effective because it minimizes the risk of accidental reactions between substances that could be hazardous if they come into contact. By keeping incompatible materials at a significant distance from each other, the potential for an explosive or harmful reaction is greatly reduced.

The maintenance of physical space allows for a safety buffer that can help prevent incidents that may occur due to spills, leaks, or the pressure that may build up if incompatible chemicals are near one another. This practice is crucial in laboratory settings where reactions could lead to fires or the release of toxic gases.

Other methods that may seem plausible, such as storing incompatible materials in the same location or mixing them, do not enhance safety and can lead to dangerous situations. Using any storage container without regard to the materials it holds is also not advisable, as it could lead to chemical reactions and degrade the integrity of the containers themselves.