Structure 1.1 – Introduction to the particulate nature of matter

1.1.1 – Elements, compounds and mixtures

📌 Classification of matter

• Matter can be broadly categorised into pure substances and mixtures
• Pure substances are elements and compounds
• Elements are the primary constituents of matter and cannot be broken down into simpler substances
• Compounds are different atoms of elements that have been chemically bonded
• Mixtures are of two types : homogeneous and heterogeneous
• Homogenous mixtures consist of different elements and compounds that exist in the same phase
• Heterogenous mixtures consist of different elements and compounds that are not in the phase (non-uniform properties)

📌 Methods of separating mixtures

1. Filtration : involves a solid being separated from a liquid using a membrane. Filtration creates a residue (solid) and filtrate (liquid)
2. Distillation : separates solvent from solute. By using relative boiling points, the solvent is evaporated and then condensed to be separated from the solute.
3. Paper chromatography : separates components of a mixture by separating components based on solubility