how is a chemical mixture distinguished from a chemical compound?
http://chemed.chem.purdue.edu/genchem/topicreview/bp/ch2/mixframe.html
Because it is mixed
A chemical mixture is distinguished from a chemical compound based on the properties of its components. Here's how you can differentiate between the two:
1. Composition: Chemical mixtures are formed by combining two or more substances (elements or compounds) without any chemical bonding between them. In contrast, chemical compounds consist of two or more elements chemically bonded in a fixed ratio.
2. Properties: In a chemical mixture, the components retain their individual properties, and they can be separated using physical methods like filtration, distillation, or evaporation. Conversely, chemical compounds have unique properties different from their constituent elements, and they can only be separated through chemical reactions.
3. Homogeneity: Mixtures can be either homogeneous or heterogeneous. Homogeneous mixtures have a uniform composition and appear the same throughout (e.g., salt dissolved in water). Heterogeneous mixtures, on the other hand, have non-uniform composition and contain visible components (e.g., sand and water). Chemical compounds are generally homogeneous.
4. Melting and Boiling Points: Chemical mixtures have variable melting and boiling points, as they are dependent on the properties of individual components. In contrast, chemical compounds have fixed melting and boiling points due to their consistent composition.
5. Formula: Chemical mixtures do not have a chemical formula, as they are not composed of fixed ratios of elements. Chemical compounds, however, have a distinct chemical formula that represents their composition.
In summary, a chemical mixture comprises different substances mixed physically, while a chemical compound is made up of elements chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio, resulting in unique properties and a definite formula.