The difference between homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures lies in their uniformity and visibility of components.
Homogeneous Mixture
- Composition is uniform throughout.
- The components are mixed at the molecular level and cannot be distinguished separately.
- Also called a solution.
- Has the same properties throughout the sample.
- Examples:
- Salt dissolved in water
- Sugar solution
- Air (mixture of gases)
- Vinegar
Heterogeneous Mixture
- Composition is not uniform throughout.
- Different components are visible or can be separated physically.
- Properties vary from one part to another.
- Examples:
- Sand and water
- Oil and water
- Salad
- Soil
Key Difference:
- Homogeneous mixture → looks the same everywhere, components are indistinguishable.
- Heterogeneous mixture → looks different in different parts, components are distinguishable.