Question

Give two examples of homogeneous mixtures.

Answer 1

Hint: We know that mixtures are formed when two or more substances are mixed together. It is important that these substances do not react chemically but other than that these can be combined in any ratio. Homogenous mixtures are those which have a uniform composition throughout.

Complete step by step solution:
Homogenous mixtures are the types of mixtures in which the components mixed are uniformly distributed throughout the mixture. Thus we can observe only one kind of phase for homogenous mixtures. Some of the most important characteristics of homogenous mixtures are:
- The particles of these mixtures are always uniformly distributed.
- They are also called solutions.
- They cannot be separated out by physical means.

Since homogenous mixtures can exist in any phase, let us cite an example for each:
Solids: Cement is a solid homogeneous mixture of various calcium compounds. On mixing with sand, gravel and water, it becomes concrete which is one of the most important building materials in the world.
Liquid: Water itself is an example of a homogeneous mixture even when it is not pure. The dissolved minerals are uniformly distributed.
Gas: Air that we breathe is a homogeneous mixture of oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and carbon dioxide, along with other gases in smaller amounts.

Note: To distinguish between heterogeneous and homogeneous mixtures, we use the standard of the naked eye. If we can see a substance to contain two or more distinct components, it is considered heterogeneous and if it appears to be just one uniform substance, it is considered homogeneous.