Solutions and Suspensions

Solutions and Suspensions

Solutions and suspensions are mixtures. They are made up of two or more elements or mixtures or compounds. These elements are not chemically combined. They are given heat/ light or electrical energy, and hence are not mixtures. Solutions and suspensions can be separated via non-chemical methods like filtration and distillation.

Solutions and suspensions are frequently confused. It is clear that solutions and suspensions are NOT the same. Solutions and suspensions have different characteristics.

Solutions

Solutions are a type of mixture that contain two or more substances. Solutions compose of a solvent and one or more solutes. Solutions are homogeneous. This means that the substances in the solution is equally spread out between the whole solution. The particles of the solutes are equally divided in the solvent, in which case, it's particles are also equally spread out. With the characteristic of being homogeneous, the solute will not settle to the bottom of the container of beaker it is in when the solute and solution is left untouched by itself.

There are different types of solutions. There can be solutions of gases, liquids, liquids in solids, gases in solids, or solid in solid. A very common example of a solution of gases can be air.
Solution of:

Gases in gases: Air
Gases in Liquid: Oxygen and water
Liquid in Liquid: Alcoholic beverages
Solid in Liquid: Sucrose in water
Gases in Solid: Hydrogen and metals, palladium
Liquid in Solid: Mercury in gold, parrafin wax
Solid in Solid: Alloys, Steel

Suspensions

Suspensions are not to be confused with solutions. Suspensions are unique, in that the solute is not even spread out in the solvent. It is not homogeneous. A suspension is heterogeneous. A suspension is a fluid containing solid particles that are rather large. The solid particles are not spread out evenly in the fluid, and they will descend to the bottom of the container or beaker they are in when left to settle. The suspended particles are visible under the microscope.

Some common examples include:
-Muddy water
-Chalk in water
-Paint
-Flour in water

Reflection

This was a very interesting topic for me. I had always known of the two words, but I had never known its difference. This learning experience was very fruitful for me. I decided to provide more information about it and extend my learning.

I did some research on the topic and I found out some common examples. I am now clearer with this topic as this write-up and revision help to clarify my thoughts and learning points.