Solution
A solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances. The solute is the substance that is dissolved in the solvent. The solvent is the substance that does the dissolving. Solutions are usually transparent and have a uniform composition throughout.
Examples of solutions include:
* Salt water (salt dissolved in water)
* Sugar water (sugar dissolved in water)
* Alcohol (ethanol dissolved in water)
Mechanical Mixture
A mechanical mixture is a heterogeneous mixture of two or more substances. The components of a mechanical mixture are not chemically combined and can be easily separated by physical means, such as filtration or sieving. Mechanical mixtures are usually not transparent and have a non-uniform composition.
Examples of mechanical mixtures include:
* Sand and water
* Oil and water
* Cereal and milk
Table of Differences
| Property | Solution | Mechanical Mixture |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Homogeneous | Heterogeneous |
| Transparency | Transparent | Not transparent |
| Composition | Uniform | Non-uniform |
| Separation | Difficult to separate | Easy to separate |
