1. Composed of two or more substances:
A mixture is formed when two or more substances are physically combined, but not chemically bonded.
2. Substances retain their individual properties:
Each component of a mixture maintains its unique chemical identity and properties. For example, in a mixture of sand and salt, the sand particles remain sand and the salt crystals remain salt.
3. Components can be separated by physical means:
The substances in a mixture can be separated using physical methods like filtration, evaporation, distillation, magnetism, or decantation. These methods rely on differences in physical properties like boiling point, solubility, or magnetic susceptibility.
4. Variable composition:
The ratio of the components in a mixture can vary. You can have a mixture with more sand and less salt, or vice versa.
Examples of Mixtures:
* Saltwater: A mixture of salt and water.
* Air: A mixture of gases like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.
* Sand: A mixture of different types of minerals.
* Trail mix: A mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
Key Points to Remember:
* Mixtures are not chemical compounds. Compounds are formed by the chemical bonding of two or more elements.
* Mixtures can be homogeneous (uniform composition throughout, like saltwater) or heterogeneous (non-uniform composition, like sand).
Hope this helps!