How do mixtures about matter differ from pure substances
Mixtures and pure substances differ primarily in their composition and homogeneity:
1. Composition: Mixtures are composed of two or more different substances in varying proportions, whereas pure substances are made up of only one type of substance.
2. Homogeneity: Mixtures can be either homogeneous or heterogeneous, depending on the degree of uniformity of their components. Homogeneous mixtures, such as solutions, have a uniform composition throughout, while heterogeneous mixtures, such as suspensions or colloids, have visible differences in their composition. In contrast, pure substances are always uniform and have the same composition throughout.
3. Separation: Mixtures can be separated into their individual components through physical means, such as filtration, evaporation, distillation, or chromatography. Pure substances cannot be separated into other substances by physical means.
4. Properties: Mixtures can exhibit a range of physical and chemical properties, which may vary depending on the composition and ratio of their components. Pure substances have fixed and characteristic physical and chemical properties, which are consistent regardless of the amount or presence of impurities.
5. Purification: Mixtures may require purification if the desired substance is contaminated or mixed with unwanted materials. Pure substances are already in their most refined form and do not require further purification.
Overall, mixtures are diverse combinations of different substances with variable properties, while pure substances are uniform and have consistent characteristics.