Cyclones rely on what forces to help separate out particulates?

Cyclones utilize a combination of inertial forces, centrifugal forces, and gravity to effectively separate particulates from a gas stream.

Inertial forces come into play as the gas carrying the particulates enters the cyclone at an angle, causing the heavier particulates to move towards the outer wall due to their inertia. This motion causes them to collide with these walls and fall downwards under the influence of gravity.

Centrifugal forces are generated due to the circular motion of the gas inside the cyclone. As the gas spins, the centrifugal force pushes the heavier particulates outward against the cyclone wall. This outward movement further aids the separation process as particles are propelled away from the lighter gas.

Gravity is also critical in the separation process. After the particulates have been pushed towards the wall through inertial and centrifugal forces, gravity helps pull them down into a collection chamber where they can be removed from the system.

Thus, the effective operation of a cyclone depends on the synergistic action of all these forces, making the comprehensive choice of "All the above" the correct answer.