Mixtures, Solutions and Suspensions

Understand the differences between mixtures, solutions, and suspensions with definitions, properties, and real-world examples.

Mixtures

A mixture is a combination of substances which are not chemically joined together.

Properties:

  • Mixtures have the same properties as their components
  • There is no fixed proportion between the components
  • The components can be separated from the mixture

Examples:

  • Sugar and salt
  • Air with nitrogen and oxygen

Solutions

A solution is a homogeneous mixture in which one substance (solute) is dissolved in another substance (solvent).

Properties:

  • The components in a solution may not be separated by leaving it to stand, or by filtration
  • A material that dissolves in a liquid is said to be soluble
  • A solution is saturated if no more solute can be dissolved with temperature remaining constant

Examples:

  • Salt in sea water

Suspensions

A suspension is a mixture of liquids with particles of a solid which may not dissolve in the liquid.

Properties:

  • The solid may be separated from the liquid by leaving it to stand, or by filtration

Examples:

  • Sand in water
TypeCompositionSeparabilityPropertiesExample
MixtureTwo or more substances not chemically joinedCan be separatedSame as components, no fixed proportionSugar and salt
SolutionSolute dissolved in solvent (homogeneous)Cannot be separated by filtration or settlingHomogeneous, uniform throughoutSalt in sea water
SuspensionSolid particles dispersed in liquidCan be separated by settling or filtrationHeterogeneous, particles visible/separableSand in water