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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Compound and Mixture?

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The main difference between compounds and mixtures lies in the chemical composition and the way their constituent substances are combined. Here are the key differences between compounds and mixtures:

  1. Chemical Composition: Compounds are formed by chemically combining two or more elements, resulting in a new substance with unique properties. Mixtures, on the other hand, are formed by physically mixing two or more substances without any chemical reaction.
  2. Melting and Boiling Points: Compounds have defined melting and boiling points, while mixtures do not have fixed melting and boiling points.
  3. Properties: The properties of a compound are distinct from its constituent elements, while mixtures retain the original properties of their constituent substances.
  4. Separability: The components of a mixture can be separated using physical means, such as evaporation, distillation, filtration, and chromatography. In contrast, the elements in a compound can only be separated through a chemical reaction.
  5. Examples: Some examples of compounds include water, salt, and baking soda. Examples of mixtures include oil and water, sand and water, and cereal in milk.

In summary, compounds are chemically combined substances with unique properties, while mixtures are physically combined substances that retain their original properties. The components of a mixture can be easily separated, whereas the elements in a compound can only be separated through a chemical reaction.

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  • What is the Difference Between Compound and Mixture?
  • Comparative Table: Compound vs Mixture

    • Comparative Table: Compound vs Mixture

    Here is a table summarizing the key differences between compounds and mixtures:

    Differentiating Property Compound Mixture
    Definition A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. A mixture is a substance formed when two or more substances are physically combined.
    Properties The properties of a compound are different from the individual properties of its constituent elements. The properties of a mixture are dependent on the properties of its constituent substances.
    Ratio of Elements The elements in a compound always combine in a fixed ratio by mass. The elements or substances in a mixture may or may not be in a fixed ratio.
    New Substances A new substance is formed when elements combine to form a compound. No new substance is formed in a mixture.
    Separation The components of a compound cannot be easily separated. The components of a mixture can be easily separated using physical methods such as evaporation, distillation, filtration, and chromatography.
    Melting and Boiling Points The melting and boiling points of a compound are always defined. The melting and boiling points of a mixture are not defined.
    Examples Water (H2O), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Glucose (C6H12O6), Copper sulfate (CuSO4) Oil and water, sand and water, smog (smoke + fog), sugar and water, salt and water, air (mixture of gases)

    Mixtures are impure substances made up of two or more physically mixed substances, and they can be homogeneous or heterogeneous in nature. Compounds, on the other hand, are pure materials made up of two or more elements combined chemically in a set mass ratio.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.