A mixture involves physically combining substances, while a compound involves chemically combining elements.
Here's a breakdown:
Mixtures vs. Compounds
The fundamental difference lies in how the substances are combined:
| Feature | Mixture | Compound |
|---|---|---|
| Combination | Physical mixing | Chemical combination |
| Composition | Variable; components retain their properties | Fixed ratio of elements; new properties formed |
| Separation | Easily separated by physical means (filtration, evaporation) | Separated only by chemical reactions |
| Examples | Air, salt water, salad | Water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), salt (NaCl) |
Detailed Explanation
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Mixtures: In a mixture, two or more substances are simply mixed together. Each substance retains its individual properties. For instance, in a salt water mixture, you still have salt and you still have water; they're just mixed together. You can easily separate them by evaporating the water, leaving the salt behind. Examples include air (a mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, and other gases) and a salad (a mixture of vegetables).
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Compounds: In a compound, two or more elements are chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio. This chemical bonding creates a new substance with completely different properties than the original elements. For example, water (H₂O) is a compound formed by the chemical combination of hydrogen and oxygen. Water has properties that are very different from both hydrogen and oxygen gases. Separating a compound into its constituent elements requires a chemical reaction.
Key Differences Summarized:
- Physical vs. Chemical Change: Mixing is a physical change, while forming a compound is a chemical change.
- Properties: Components in a mixture retain their individual properties, while a compound exhibits new properties distinct from its constituent elements.
- Separation: Mixtures are easily separated by physical methods; compounds require chemical methods.
