Difference Between Pure and Impure Substance
What is a Pure Substance?
A pure substance is a material that consists of only one type of atom or molecule. It has a uniform and definite composition throughout.
Examples of Pure Substances
- Water (H2O)
- Nitrogen gas (N2)
- Gold (Au)
- Oxygen gas (O2)
- Table salt (NaCl)
Uses of Pure Substances
Pure substances have various applications in different industries. For example, water is essential for human survival and is used for drinking, cooking, and agriculture. Gold is used in jewelry, electronics, and as an investment.
What is an Impure Substance?
An impure substance, also known as a mixture, is a material that contains more than one type of atom or molecule. It does not have a uniform composition throughout.
Examples of Impure Substances
- Air (a mixture of various gases)
- Sea salt (contains sodium chloride along with other minerals)
- Milk (contains water, fat, proteins, lactose, and minerals)
- Soil (a mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, and air)
- Brass (an alloy of copper and zinc)
Uses of Impure Substances
Impure substances are commonly used in daily life. For example, air is essential for breathing, and soil is used for agriculture. Brass is used in musical instruments, plumbing fittings, and decorative items.
Differences Between Pure and Impure Substances
| Difference Area | Pure Substances | Impure Substances |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Consists of only one type of atom or molecule | Contains more than one type of atom or molecule |
| Physical Properties | Have well-defined physical properties | Physical properties vary depending on the composition |
| Purity | Considered pure if it has a single component | Considered impure as it has multiple components |
| Melting and Boiling Points | Have specific melting and boiling points | Have a range of melting and boiling points |
| Separation | Cannot be separated into simpler components by physical means | Can be separated into its components by physical means |
| Homogeneity | Have a homogeneous composition throughout | Do not have a homogeneous composition throughout |
| Chemical Properties | Exhibit specific chemical properties | Chemical properties vary based on the components present |
| Classification | Can be elements or compounds | Can be mixtures or alloys |
| Reactivity | React predictably as per their chemical properties | Reactivity may vary depending on the components and their proportions |
| Consistency | Consistency of properties is maintained | Properties can vary within the mixture |
Conclusion:
In summary, pure substances consist of a single type of atom or molecule with a uniform composition, while impure substances are mixtures that contain multiple components with varying compositions. The differences extend to their physical and chemical properties, separation methods, and reactivity.
People Also Ask:
- What is the definition of a pure substance?
A pure substance is a material consisting of only one type of atom or molecule with a uniform composition. - What are some examples of impure substances?
Some examples of impure substances include air, sea salt, milk, soil, and alloys like brass. - How are pure substances and impure substances different?
Pure substances have a single component and uniform composition, while impure substances have multiple components and varying compositions. - Can impure substances be separated into their components?
Yes, impure substances can be separated into their components by physical methods such as filtration, distillation, or chromatography. - What are the uses of pure substances?
Pure substances have a wide range of applications in various industries, including medicine, electronics, agriculture, and manufacturing.
