What distinguishes a mixture from a solution?

A mixture is distinguished from a solution primarily by its composition and uniformity. The defining characteristic of a mixture is that it varies in composition, meaning that the proportions of the individual components can change. In mixtures, the components remain separate and retain their individual properties, allowing for visible phases or substances that can be differentiated.

For instance, if you combine sand and salt, you can still see the individual grains of sand and granules of salt, demonstrating that these components are not uniformly distributed. In contrast, a solution represents a uniform mixture where one substance is dissolved in another, resulting in a single phase that is homogenous throughout.

This variability in composition for mixtures can apply to solids, liquids, or gases – which allows for a diverse range of mixtures, unlike solutions that are characterized by complete dissolution and uniformity. Hence, the distinct nature of a mixture's composition is crucial for understanding how it differs from a solution.