"one of your friends is arguing that viruses are "alive." what information would you provide to convince him that viruses can't be considered alive? "

Viruses use RNA as their genetic material, and bacteria can live without a host, unlike viruses. 

What is the question? if you were looking to design a method of separating something, you can separate this compound by putting both in water and allowing the water to dissolve the sugar. then pour it into another beaker and evaporate it then boom! salt and sugar : )