What is the Difference Between Pure Substance and Mixture?

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The main difference between a pure substance and a mixture lies in their composition and properties. Here are the key differences:

  • Pure Substance: A pure substance has a constant and definite composition, meaning that all samples of the substance have the same properties and composition. Pure substances can be further divided into elements and compounds. They have constant physical and chemical properties. Examples of pure substances include gold, copper, oxygen, chlorine, diamond, water, salt, and baking soda.
  • Mixture: A mixture is a physical combination of two or more pure substances, in which each substance retains its own chemical identity. Mixtures can be classified as homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (non-uniform composition). They have varying physical and chemical properties. Examples of mixtures include nitrogen and oxygen in the atmosphere, water and oil, and oil and water.

In summary:

  • Pure substances have a constant and definite composition.
  • Mixtures are physical combinations of two or more pure substances, with each substance retaining its own chemical identity.
  • Pure substances have constant physical and chemical properties.
  • Mixtures have varying physical and chemical properties.

Comparative Table: Pure Substance vs Mixture

Here is a table representing the differences between pure substances and mixtures:

Property Pure Substance Mixture
Definition A substance made of a single element or compound A physical combination of two or more pure substances
Classification Elements and compounds Homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures
Physical Properties Constant Vary
Chemical Properties Constant Vary
Separation by Physical Process Not possible Possible to separate by evaporation, magnetic separation, etc.
Purity Pure Impure
Examples Gold, pure water, hydrogen gas Oil & water, sand & sugar, vinegar, caramel, orange juice with pulp, water with ice

Please note that this table is based on the information provided in the search results.