Question

Classify the following into homogeneous and heterogeneous matter:

Alcohol

Answer 1

Alcohol is a homogeneous matter.

• This is because alcohol i.e.; Ethanol $\left({\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{H}}_5\mathrm{OH}\right)$ is a volatile liquid with uniform constitution and properties throughout.

Homogeneous matter: Any substance that exhibit uniformity in its composition and properties throughout its mass is known as a homogeneous matter. Homogeneous matter can be further divided into two parts i.e.;

• Pure substances: When only one type of constituent particles are present in the substance. Example: Substances like Copper $\left(\mathrm{Cu}\right)$, Iron $\left(\mathrm{Fe}\right)$ etc. and substances like Water $\left({\mathrm{H}}_2\mathrm{O}\right)$, Hydrochloric acid $\left(\mathrm{HCl}\right)$
• Homogeneous mixture: When more than one type of constituent particles are present in a substance. Example: A solution of salt and water, tea etc.

Heterogeneous matter: Any substance that does not exhibit uniformity in its composition and properties throughout its mass is known as a heterogeneous matter. Example: Muddy water, Sand and Iron $\left(\mathrm{Fe}\right)$ nails combined together.