Difference Between Mixture and Compound
In chemistry, substances can exist as mixtures or compounds, but they differ in composition, properties, and how they can be separated.
1. Definition
- Mixture: A combination of two or more substances physically blended together without any chemical bonding.
- Compound: A substance formed when two or more elements chemically combine in a fixed ratio, creating new chemical properties.
2. Composition
- Mixture: Variable composition; the proportion of substances can change.
- Compound: Fixed composition; elements combine in a definite ratio.
3. Separation
- Mixture: Can be separated by physical methods like filtration, evaporation, or distillation.
- Compound: Can be separated into elements only by chemical reactions.
4. Properties
- Mixture: Retains the properties of its individual components.
- Compound: Exhibits new properties different from its constituent elements.
5. Examples
- Mixture: Air (oxygen + nitrogen), saltwater, salad.
- Compound: Water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), table salt (NaCl).
Summary Table:
| Feature | Mixture | Compound |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Physical combination of substances | Chemical combination of elements |
| Composition | Variable | Fixed ratio |
| Separation | Physical methods (filtration, distillation) | Chemical methods only |
| Properties | Retains individual properties | Has new properties |
| Examples | Air, saltwater, salad | Water, carbon dioxide, table salt |
Key Point:
- Mixture: Substances physically combined; can be separated easily.
- Compound: Elements chemically bonded; requires chemical methods to separate.