How do you separate ragi and mustard by threshing?

You can't effectively separate ragi and mustard by threshing alone. Here's why:

* Threshing: Threshing is a process used to separate grains from their stalks. It involves beating the stalks to dislodge the seeds. This wouldn't differentiate between ragi and mustard seeds, as they both have similar sizes and are easily dislodged from their pods.

* Similarities: Both ragi and mustard have seeds that are relatively small and lightweight. Their physical characteristics are similar, making it difficult to separate them based on size, shape, or weight.

Effective Separation Techniques:

1. Winnowing: After threshing, winnowing can be used to separate the mixture. This involves tossing the mixture in the air, allowing the lighter ragi seeds to be carried further by the wind, while the heavier mustard seeds fall closer to the ground.

2. Sieving: Using a sieve with appropriate mesh size can effectively separate the ragi and mustard based on their size differences.

3. Handpicking: This is a meticulous process, but it is the most effective way to ensure complete separation. Carefully examine the mixture and manually pick out the ragi and mustard seeds.

Important Note: It is highly recommended to use a combination of these techniques for the best results.

Alternatives to Threshing:

* Mechanical threshers: These machines can effectively thresh both ragi and mustard, but they don't offer a solution for separating the seeds.

* Hand-harvesting: This method involves removing the ragi and mustard pods individually, reducing the need for subsequent separation.

In conclusion, while threshing alone isn't suitable for separating ragi and mustard, it can be combined with other techniques like winnowing, sieving, or handpicking to achieve an effective separation.