Difference between a mixture and solution.examples of soluble and insoluble. Examples of physical and chemical changes
A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically bonded together and can be physically separated. A solution is a type of mixture where the particles of one substance (solvent) are uniformly distributed and dissolved in the particles of another substance (solute). In other words, a solution is a homogeneous mixture.
To identify the difference between a mixture and a solution, you can follow these steps:
1. Check if the substances are uniformly mixed together: If the substances appear to be evenly distributed, it is likely a solution. If you can see distinct particles of different substances, it is a mixture.
2. Observe if there is a single phase: Solutions have only one phase and appear to be the same throughout. Mixtures may have multiple phases, and the different substances can be identified separately.
Examples of soluble substances (can form a solution) include:
1. Salt (Sodium chloride) dissolves in water to form a saltwater solution.
2. Sugar (Sucrose) dissolves in tea or coffee to form sweetened beverages.
Examples of insoluble substances (cannot form a solution) include:
1. Sand does not dissolve in water, and if mixed, it forms a suspension where the sand particles settle at the bottom.
2. Oil does not dissolve in water and forms a separate layer when mixed together.
Physical changes involve alterations in the physical properties of a substance without changing its chemical composition. Examples of physical changes include:
1. Melting: When an ice cube melts, it changes from a solid to a liquid form.
2. Boiling: Water boiling and turning into steam is a physical change.
Chemical changes involve the rearrangement of atoms and result in the formation of new substances with different properties. Examples of chemical changes include:
1. Burning: When a piece of paper burns, it undergoes a chemical change, resulting in the formation of ash, smoke, and gases.
2. Digestion: Breaking down food in our body involves chemical changes to convert it into nutrients that our body can utilize.
To differentiate between physical and chemical changes, consider if there is a change in composition or chemical properties. Physical changes are reversible, while chemical changes are often irreversible and involve the formation of new substances.