Classification of matter

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What is a Physical Change?

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A Physical Change is a change that affects one or more physical properties of a substance without altering its chemical composition. Examples include changes in phase (solid, liquid, gas), size, or shape.

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What is a Chemical Change?

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A Chemical Change is a change that results in the formation of one or more new substances with different properties. Examples include rusting of iron, burning wood, and digestion of food.

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What is an Element?

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An Element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Examples include hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), and gold (Au).

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What is a Compound?

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A Compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio. Examples include water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2).

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What is a Mixture?

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A Mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically bonded. Mixtures can be homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (distinct, separate components).

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What is a Homogeneous Mixture?

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A Homogeneous Mixture is a mixture that has a uniform composition throughout. Examples include saltwater and air.

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What is a Heterogeneous Mixture?

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A Heterogeneous Mixture is a mixture that does not have a uniform composition and the individual components can be seen. Examples include salad and Italian salad dressing.

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What is a Pure Substance?

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A Pure Substance is a material that has a constant composition and consistent properties throughout. Examples include distilled water and pure gold.

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What is a Suspension?

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A Suspension is a heterogeneous mixture in which solid particles are dispersed in a liquid or gas but will settle over time. An example is muddy water.

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What is a Colloid?

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A Colloid is a mixture where very small particles of one substance are evenly distributed throughout another substance. Examples include milk and fog.