Question

An alloy is:
A. An element
B. A compound
C. A homogeneous mixture
D. A heterogeneous mixture

Answer 1

Hint: We know that in solutions we can have not only liquids but solid and gaseous solutions as well. Mixtures are of two types, homogeneous mixture and heterogeneous mixture. A mixture which possesses a uniform composition all over the solution is called homogeneous mixture, whereas a mixture which possesses a non-uniform composition is called non-homogeneous mixture.

Complete step by step answer:
We all are surrounded by matter and are continuously interacting with it. In order to make this interaction more effective, we try to know more about it which led us to its classification based on different criteria. Matter around us can be pure as well as a mixture of pure substances. Pure substances can be categorized as elements and compounds.
Element: It is made of only one type of atom and thus cannot be broken down any further into other simple substances. The examples include hydrogen, carbon
Compound: It is made of a combination of different elements in a fixed proportion and can be broken down into simple substances by employing chemical methods. The examples include water and carbon-dioxide
When we mix two or more substances in a random proportion, we get a mixture. We can also classify mixtures as homogeneous mixtures and heterogeneous mixtures.
Homogeneous mixture: when the composition of the mixture is uniform throughout, we get a homogeneous mixture. Solutions are homogeneous mixtures only. Examples include aqueous solution of salt or sugar.
Heterogeneous mixture: when the composition of the mixture is not uniform throughout, we get a heterogeneous mixture. Suspensions and colloids are heterogeneous mixtures. Examples include a mixture of salt and sand or milk.
Most commonly we come across and know about liquid solutions only in which solvent is in liquid state such as lemonade but solutions can also be prepared with solid or gases as solvent giving solid and gaseous solutions respectively. The example of solid solution is an alloy and that of gaseous solution is air.
In an alloy, we have a homogenous mixture of metals or metal and non-metal. Examples are brass and bronze.

Therefore, from the above explanation the correct option is (C).

Note:
We have to be careful with the terminology as different categories of matter might appear to be similar but they are not.