Types of solutions
Solutions can be broadly categorized into two types:
Homogeneous solutions: Solutions with uniform composition and properties throughout the solution are known as homogenous solution. E.g. solution of salt or sugar in water, cough syrup, cup of coffee, Mouthwash, perfume are homogeneous mixture of chemicals and dyes, etc.
Homogenous solution of salt dissolved in water (left), a cup of coffee (right)
Heterogeneous solutions: Solutions with non-uniform composition and properties throughout the solution are known as heterogeneous solution. E.g. solution of water and sand, solution of oil and water, water and chalk powder, etc.
Type of solution
|
Solute
|
Solvent
|
Example
|
Gaseous
|
Gas
|
Gas
|
Oxygen and nitrogen mixture
|
Liquid
|
Gas
|
Chloroform with nitrogen gas
| |
Solid
|
Gas
|
Camphor in nitrogen gas
| |
Liquid
|
Gas
|
Liquid
|
Oxygen in water
|
Liquid
|
Liquid
|
Ethanol in water
| |
Solid
|
Liquid
|
Glucose in water
| |
Solid
|
Gas
|
Solid
|
Hydrogen solution in palladium
|
Liquid
|
Solid
|
Amalgam of mercury with sodium
| |
Solid
|
Solid
|
Dissolved copper in gold
|
