Properties of Suspensions

Mixtures

Properties of Suspensions

• Heterogeneous mixture: A suspension is a type of mixture where the particles are not uniformly distributed and can be seen with the naked eye.
• Particle size: The particles in a suspension are typically larger than those in a solution, ranging from 0.1 to 10 mm in diameter.
• Settling: Particles in a suspension will settle to the bottom of the container over time due to gravity.
• Decantation: The clear liquid above the settled particles can be poured off, leaving the particles behind.
• Filtration: Suspensions can be filtered to separate the particles from the liquid.
• Examples: Mud, sand in water, and blood are all examples of suspensions.

Mixtures vs Pure Substances

• Mixtures: A physical combination of two or more substances, where each substance maintains its chemical properties.
• Pure Substances: A substance that has a fixed composition and properties, such as elements and compounds.
• Key differences:
  • Mixtures can be separated by physical means, such as filtration or decantation.
  • Pure substances cannot be separated into simpler substances by physical means.
  • The composition of a mixture can vary, while the composition of a pure substance is always fixed.
• Examples:
  • Air is a mixture of gases, including oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
  • Water is a pure substance, composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a specific ratio.
  • Saltwater is a mixture of salt and water, while salt is a pure substance.

Mixtures

Properties of Suspensions

• Suspensions are heterogeneous mixtures with visible particles.
• Particles in suspensions range from 0.1 to 10 mm in diameter.
• Suspensions settle over time due to gravity, with particles collecting at the bottom of the container.
• Decantation involves pouring off the clear liquid above the settled particles.
• Filtration can separate particles from the liquid in suspensions.
• Examples of suspensions include mud, sand in water, and blood.

Mixtures vs Pure Substances

• Mixtures are physical combinations of two or more substances, each maintaining their chemical properties.
• Pure substances have fixed compositions and properties, like elements and compounds.
• Mixtures can be separated by physical means, such as filtration or decantation.
• Pure substances cannot be separated into simpler substances by physical means.
• The composition of a mixture can vary, but pure substances have a fixed composition.
• Examples of mixtures include air (a mixture of gases) and saltwater (a mixture of salt and water).
• Examples of pure substances include water (composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a specific ratio) and salt (a pure substance with a fixed composition).

Learn about the characteristics of suspensions, a type of heterogeneous mixture, including particle size, settling, and decantation.