What are the different types?

Answer 1

There are two ways to answer this:

1) Homogeneous and heterogeneous mixtures:

a) homogenous mixtures are uniform in their composition throughout (such as an aqueous solution of pure sodium chloride - salt water)

b) heterogeneous mixtures are not uniform in their composition, containing a combination of different substances (such as milk, blood, etc.)

2) Solutions, colloids, and suspensions:

a) solutions:

- are homogenous mixtures;

- have extremely small particle size;

- usually transparent when light is shown through (light does not scatter off particles, due to small particle size)

- Examples: unsaturated/saturated solution of salt water, hydrochloric acid, etc.

b) colloids:

- are typically heterogeneous mixtures;

- have intermediate particle size;

- stay suspended under normal conditions (do not settle out); display the Tyndall effect (scatter light well, due to particle size, such as when you shine a flashlight through a gallon jug of milk, and it illuminates the entire container)

- Examples: milk, aerosols, smoke, mayonnaise

c) suspensions:

- are heterogeneous mixtures;

- have large particle size;

- will eventually settle out of suspension, separating into two or more parts (such as liquid and solid) when not agitated, under normal conditions;

- Examples: muddy water, flour in water, paint, algae in water