What is the difference between pure substances and mixtures?

Question

I want to know the difference between pure substances and mixtures. The details (element, compound, types of mixtures) are needed, and possible examples of each.

Answer 1

Pure substances: Matter that has distinct properties and a composition that does not vary from sample to sample (distinct composition). It can not be separated by any physical or mechanical means.

This includes:

1. Element- A pure substance consisting of only one type of atom. Elements are listed on the periodic table by atomic symbol. (Example: H, Hydrogen)
2. Compound- Atoms of 2+ elements bonded together. (Example: H2O, water)

Mixtures: 2+ pure substances intermingled, can be separated usually by physical or mechanical means

This includes:

1. Homogenous mixture (aka solution)- Uniform composition throughout, but % of each component can vary between samples. This is in a single-phase (s, l, g, aq). (Example: vinegar, caramel)
2. Heterogeneous mixture- Nonuniform composition throughout the substance. Can contain multiple phases. (Example: orange juice with pulp, water with ice)

Hope this helped you understand the concepts.