Mixtures & Solutions

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically combined. Each substance retains its own properties.

A solution is a special type of mixture where one substance (the solute) dissolves in another (the solvent), forming a homogeneous mixture.

This is a mixture because the iron filings and sand can be separated and retain their individual properties.

This is a mixture because the pepper does not dissolve in water and can be separated.

This is a mixture because the sand does not dissolve in water and can be separated.

In a solution, the solute dissolves in the solvent, creating a uniform mixture that cannot be easily separated.

To dissolve means to mix a solid, liquid, or gas into a liquid so that it forms a solution.

An example of a solution is saltwater, where salt (solute) dissolves in water (solvent).

A key characteristic of a mixture is that the components can be physically separated.

A key characteristic of a solution is that it appears uniform throughout and the solute cannot be seen.