How to Classify Matter Mixtures

In our world there are many different elements that combine to create every part of our daily lives. From the plastic on our toothbrushes to the paint that coats our cars, and even the foods that we eat, we are constantly surrounded by different matter mixtures. The fun part of chemistry is learning how to classify these mixtures.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A mixture of matter

How to Classify Matter Mixtures

1. Determine if the matter mixture includes an element. An element used to be a substance that could not be broken down chemically. However, with the discovery of isotopes, an element now is substance made of atoms with identical atomic numbers. Elements are shown on the periodic table.

2. Determine if the matter mixture includes a compound. A compound is anything that is chemically formed of more than one substance in proportions. An example of this would be the chemical combination of hydrogen and oxygen to create water. Pure water will always have a chemically combined proportion of 2g to 6g.

3. Determine if the matter mixture includes a pure substance. A pure substance is something that cannot be separated into simpler substances without some sort of chemical change.

4. Determine if the matter is a homogeneous mixture. Now that we have determined whether the matter is composed of elements, compounds, or pure substances we can figure out what type of mixture it is. If it is a homogeneous mixture then it has more than one pure substance within the sample that does not vary throughout the matter. Examples of homogeneous mixtures are soapy water or brewed tea.

5. Determine if the matter is a heterogeneous mixture. If the matter is a heterogeneous mixture it will not only have more than one pure substance, it will also have more than one phase. An example of this would be a can of soda. Though it's mixed together, the soda contains more than one substance in more than one phase. The liquid components as well as CO2 a gas. Other popular examples are Italian dressing and chicken noodle soup.