Matter is any substance that has mass and takes up space and volume. All matter is either a pure substance or mixture. Pure substances are made up of elements and compounds. These substances CANNOT be physically separated into smaller parts.

Mixtures, on the other hand, CAN be physically separated into smaller parts. They exist in two forms. Homogeneous mixtures appear uniform (same) throughout, like when a substance is dissolved in another. Heterogeneous mixtures do not appear uniform throughout, like when substances form distinct separate layers when mixed.

In this lab, you will create mixtures from different elements and compounds. Then, you will attempt to separate those mixtures back into their pure substance states of matter. Some separations may be very easy, some may be quite difficult. Let’s find out!