Q117P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

What is the difference between a homogenous and a heterogeneous mixture?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

In a homogenous mixture, the components are uniformly distributed.

In a heterogenous mixture, the components are non-uniformly distributed.

Step 1: Defining Mixture

The mixture contains two or more elements that are mixed by a physical process.

Mixtures are of two types- Homogenous mixture and Heterogenous mixture based on the ratio of mixing of the elements present.

Step 2: Homogenous and heterogeneous mixture

In a homogenous mixture, the compounds get uniformly distributed throughout the entire mixture. 

Examples include blood plasma, a cup of coffee, air and tap water.

In a heterogeneous mixture, the components do not get uniformly distributed and so the concentration and ratio of elements varies in the entire mixture.

Examples include soil, ocean and bowl of candies.