Which term best describes a mixture in which two or more substances are physically combined but keep their own properties?

Which term best describes a mixture in which two or more substances are physically combined but keep their own properties?

• A. Compound
• B. Element
• C. Mixture
• D. Solution

Answer: (C)

Mixing two or more substances physically while each keeps its own properties is a mixture. In a mixture, the components retain their identities and can usually be separated by physical methods, because no chemical bonds form between them. This differs from a compound, where elements bond chemically to form a new substance with its own properties and a fixed ratio. An element is a pure substance made of one kind of atom. A solution is a homogeneous mixture where one substance dissolves in another and the blend has a uniform composition, though the original substances are still present at the molecular level. Examples include air, trail mix, and salt in water.

Mixing two or more substances physically while each keeps its own properties is a mixture. In a mixture, the components retain their identities and can usually be separated by physical methods, because no chemical bonds form between them. This differs from a compound, where elements bond chemically to form a new substance with its own properties and a fixed ratio. An element is a pure substance made of one kind of atom. A solution is a homogeneous mixture where one substance dissolves in another and the blend has a uniform composition, though the original substances are still present at the molecular level. Examples include air, trail mix, and salt in water.