Mixture: GCSE Chemistry Definition

What is a mixture?

In GCSE chemistry, a mixture is a substance consisting of two or more elements or compounds which are not chemically joined. As a result, it is possible to separate a mixture by physical means. 

Methods used to separate mixtures include filtration, crystallisation, chromatography and distillation. The method used depends on the substance being separated. 

Filtration is used to separate a solid and liquid, so would be appropriate for a mixture of sand and water.  

Simple distillation can separate a pure substance from a mixture so could be used to separate water from salty water. 

Chromatography can separate mixtures of substances that have different solubilities, such as the colours in ink. 

Crystallisation involves separating a dissolved solid from a solution, for example, obtaining salt from water. 

Mixtures Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

To explore mixtures further, check out our revision notes on separation techniques, then practice our topic questions to ensure exam success. Flashcards on mixtures on are also a great way to revise this topic before an exam. 

Explore our GCSE Chemistry Revision Resources.