How do solutions differ from heterogeneous mixtures? Other classes of matter?

Question

Wyatt Atkins · Accepted Answer

Heterogeneous solutions are usually called suspensions and they occur when there are two distinct parts about the solution. Homogeneous solutions have only one distinct phase.

Consider salt water, a homogeneous solution where sodium chloride has completely dissolved in water. Think of other examples when the solution only has one distinct part, or when the constituent solute is completely dissolved by the constituent solvent within the solution, these will be homogeneous solutions. Now think of oil and water, which will settle into two distinct parts. These can sometimes also be different phases of matter, and then it would be more correct to call it a heterogeneous mixture. Oil and water is a heterogeneous solution, and will form a colloid to become a suspension.

Caleb Adams · Answer

undefined Solutions differ from heterogeneous mixtures in that solutions are homogeneous mixtures where the solute is evenly distributed in the solvent, while in heterogeneous mixtures, the components are visibly separate. Solutions also differ from other classes of matter, such as compounds, elements, and colloids, based on their uniform composition at the molecular level and their ability to pass through filters without separation of components.