Sodium metatungstate is widely used in mineral separation processes due to its ability to form high-density aqueous solutions. It is a preferred medium in heavy liquid separations, where it effectively separates minerals based on specific gravity without the toxicity or handling risks associated with older heavy liquids like bromoform or methylene iodide. It is commonly applied in geology and mining for concentrating heavy minerals from soil or rock samples. Its non-flammable, non-volatile, and biodegradable properties make it safe and environmentally favorable for laboratory and field use. In addition, sodium metatungstate is used in analytical procedures requiring density gradient centrifugation, particularly in environmental and biological sample preparation. The solution can be easily adjusted in density by dilution, allowing fine control over separation efficiency. It also finds use in industrial quality control, such as in the ceramics and electronics industries, where precise particle density sorting is required. The chemical leaves minimal residue and does not interfere with downstream analysis, making it suitable for sensitive applications.