The different substances in the mixture are called components of mixture.


the components of mixture retain their properties in the mixture.


example : the air that we breath is a mixture of gases like oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide.



the gases in air are components of air.

Components of a Mixture

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically combined. In a mixture, each substance retains its own properties and can be separated physically. Mixtures can be made up of solids, liquids, or gases. Let's explore the components of a mixture in detail.

1. Substances:
A mixture is composed of two or more substances. A substance is a type of matter that has a definite composition and distinct properties. It can be an element or a compound. Elements are pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Compounds, on the other hand, are substances made up of two or more elements chemically combined in a fixed ratio.

2. Homogeneous Mixture:
A homogeneous mixture is a mixture that has a uniform composition throughout. In other words, the components of a homogeneous mixture are evenly distributed and not easily distinguishable. For example, salt dissolved in water or air.

3. Heterogeneous Mixture:
A heterogeneous mixture is a mixture that does not have a uniform composition. In a heterogeneous mixture, the components are not evenly distributed and can be easily distinguished. Examples include a mixture of oil and water or a mixture of sand and iron filings.

4. Solvent:
In a mixture, the substance present in the largest amount is called the solvent. The solvent is responsible for dissolving the other substances and is commonly a liquid. For example, in a saltwater solution, water is the solvent that dissolves the salt.

5. Solute:
The substances that are dissolved in the solvent are called solutes. The solutes can be solids, liquids, or gases. In the saltwater solution mentioned earlier, salt is the solute that is dissolved in water.

6. Suspension:
A suspension is a type of heterogeneous mixture where solid particles are dispersed in a liquid or gas but eventually settle down due to gravity. An example of a suspension is a mixture of sand and water, where the sand particles settle at the bottom over time.

7. Colloid:
A colloid is another type of heterogeneous mixture in which tiny particles are dispersed in a medium. Unlike suspensions, the particles in a colloid do not settle down due to gravity. Examples of colloids include milk, fog, and mayonnaise.

In conclusion, a mixture is a combination of two or more substances that retain their own properties and can be physically separated. It can be either homogeneous or heterogeneous, depending on the uniformity of its composition. A mixture consists of a solvent, which dissolves the solutes. Additionally, there are suspensions and colloids, which are specific types of mixtures characterized by the dispersion of particles in a medium. Understanding the components of a mixture is essential to comprehend the properties and behavior of different substances.