Download Mixtures Explained

Mixtures and Solutions
Most of the substances we see around us are mixtures, combinations of different
elements or compounds. The components of some mixtures—such as sandy water,
which consists of grains of sand suspended in water—can easily be separated or will
naturally settle. Others, such as salty water, form more permanent mixtures. How
can we separate different kinds of mixtures into their component parts?
Mixtures that settle—separate out naturally—are called suspensions. Sandy water is
a good example of a suspension. Stirring will mix the sand and the water, but over
time, the denser sand will fall to the bottom of the container, and a clear layer of
water will appear above it.
A mixture whose parts remain stable and remain mixed over time is called
a solution. Solutions commonly consist of a solid solute that is dissolved in a
liquid solvent. The molecules of the solute are evenly dispersed and very small. Salt
water, lemon juice, and antifreeze are all solutions. These mixtures will remain
mixed even when left standing for a long time.