Non-mixture

A substance or material that consists of a single element, compound, or phase, and is therefore not a combination of two or more different components physically combined. It represents a pure form of matter, with consistent physical and chemical properties throughout. This implies a uniform composition, where the constituent particles are identical, and no discernible separation can be observed. The absence of a mixture ensures that the substance exhibits a fixed ratio of components, unlike mixtures which have variable ratios and properties based on the blend.

Non-mixture meaning with examples

• Distilled water, being pure H2O, qualifies as a non-mixture. Every molecule is identical, and no other substances are present. Its consistent properties, such as boiling point and density, are readily predictable. Contrast this to seawater, a mixture of water and salts, where properties change based on salinity. The lack of other substances differentiates it; a perfect demonstration of a non-mixture.
• A perfectly formed diamond, composed purely of carbon atoms, is a non-mixture. All its atoms are arranged in a consistent crystalline structure. While potentially containing trace impurities in the real world, the ideal is what represents this term. The consistent arrangement and purity sets it apart from a composite, which would introduce different materials and therefore, a mixture.
• Gold bars used in financial markets are also considered non-mixtures, especially if they are of high purity. Such pure forms of gold contain essentially only gold atoms, and can be refined to that point. This homogenous nature provides reliability and predictable value. Compared to an alloy, which is a metal mixture, gold represents an example of a uniform non-mixture.
• Table salt (sodium chloride) in its crystalline form is a non-mixture. It is a pure compound with a consistent ratio of sodium and chlorine. Every crystal has the same chemical composition. Unlike sea salt, which is a mixture containing other minerals, table salt serves as an exemplary instance of a non-mixture in chemistry because of this.