Types of Mixtures
A mixture is defined as a physical combination of two or more substances. Unlike compounds, the components of a mixture maintain their individual properties and can be separated by physical means. Mixtures can be classified as homogeneous, where the composition is uniform throughout, or heterogeneous, where the components can be distinguished easily. For example, salt dissolved in water represents a homogeneous mixture (a solution), while sand and iron filings form a heterogeneous mixture. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in chemistry and everyday life, as they impact how substances interact and can be used.