Chemistry Lab Investigation: Identifying a Solid Substance

Question:

What is the best classification for the original solid substance that had two different melting points and could be separated into two distinct liquids?

A. It was an atom.

B. It was a mixture.

C. It was an element.

D. It was a compound.

Final answer:

The substance in question, having different melting points and being separable into distinct liquids upon heating, is best defined as a mixture. This is because each component in a mixture retains its original properties, and can be individually separated.

Explanation:

The original solid substance that has two different melting points and can be separated into two different liquids is best classified as a mixture. This classification aligns with the definition of a mixture, as mixtures are formed when two or more substances are physically combined, and each substance retains its own properties, such as having a unique melting point.

Mixtures can be separated into their individual components, because no new substances are being formed. In your science lab investigation, the scientist was able to separate the two resulting liquids after the solid mixture was heated, which further classifies the original solid as a mixture.

Historically, humanity has known about a hundred and eighteen elements, and millions of compounds. However, many more mixtures can be and have been formed from these elements and compounds for various purposes in our everyday life.