Q13.15 P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

The dictionary defines homogenous as “uniform in composition throughout.” River water is a mixture of dissolved compounds, such as calcium bicarbonate, and suspended soil particles. Is river water homogenous? Explain.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

River water is heterogeneous in nature.

Step 1: Definition of homogenous and heterogenous solution

A homogenous mixture is defined as the mixture which holds only one phase and a heterogeneous mixture is defined as the one which holds two or more phases.

Step 2: Explanation

The density of particles in the river is not the same in all depths of the river. The particles in the river system are easy to separate out. Therefore, the river system is not a homogenous system, but a heterogeneous one.