6.6B Pure Substances and Mixtures

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What is a pure substance?

Back

A pure substance is a material that has a constant composition and consistent properties throughout. Examples include elements and compounds.

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What is a mixture?

Back

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances where each retains its own properties. Mixtures can be homogeneous or heterogeneous.

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What is a homogeneous mixture?

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A homogeneous mixture is a mixture that has a uniform composition throughout. The individual components are not distinguishable. Example: saltwater.

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What is a heterogeneous mixture?

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A heterogeneous mixture is a mixture where the individual components can be seen and are not uniformly distributed. Example: salad.

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What is a solution?

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A solution is a type of homogeneous mixture formed when one substance (solute) dissolves in another (solvent). Example: sugar in water.

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Can mixtures be separated?

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Yes, mixtures can be separated by physical methods such as filtration, evaporation, or using a magnet.

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What is an element?

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An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Examples include oxygen, gold, and hydrogen.

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What is a compound?

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A compound is a pure substance formed when two or more elements chemically combine in fixed proportions. Example: water (H2O).

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Is air a pure substance or a mixture?

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Air is a mixture because it contains various gases (like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) that can be separated.

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What is the difference between a solute and a solvent?

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A solute is the substance that is dissolved in a solution, while a solvent is the substance that does the dissolving. Example: in saltwater, salt is the solute and water is the solvent.