If matter is uniform throughout and can be separated into multiple substances by physical means, it is called a(n) ________________.

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

We’re given a prompt about a type of matter with specific characteristics, and we must consider each option.
Option 1: element. An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means, and it is not a mixture. Since the prompt describes matter that can be separated into multiple substances by physical means, this cannot be simply an element.
Option 2: compound. A compound consists of two or more elements chemically bonded in fixed ratios. Compounds can be decomposed into their elements or simpler compounds by chemical rather than physical processes. The clue that separation is achievable by physical means indicates this is not a pure compound.
Option 3: diatomic gas. A diatomic gas refers to molecules consisting of two atoms (like O2 or N2). While such a gas may be uniform, the key phrase here is that it can be separated into multiple substances by physical means; in the case of a diatomic gas, separating into different substances would require chemical changes or isn’t described by a simple physical separation into multiple distinct substances. This does not fit the general idea of a uniform mixture that contains multiple substances.
Option 4: heterogeneous mixture. A heterogeneous mixture has nonuniform composition; you can often see distinct parts or phases. The prompt specifies the matter is uniform throughout, so this choice is inconsistent with the given description.
Option 5: homogeneous mixture. A homogeneous mixture has uniform composition throughout the sample, and it can consist of multiple substances physically mixed (for example, salt dissolved in water). Such a mixture can be separated into its constituent substances by physical methods (like distillation, evaporation, or filtration in the case of a solution before complete separation). The description aligns with a uniform composition that remains separable into multiple substances using physical means, which matches this option.
Option 6: none of these. Since one of the listed options (the homogeneous mixture) correctly fits the description, this choice would be inaccurate.
In summary, the correct understanding is that a uniform material that can be separated into multiple substances by physical methods corresponds to a homogeneous mixture, while the other options describe substances that are either pure, nonuniform, or do not fit the separation clue. The key distinctions hinge on uniformity of composition, the possibility and method of separation, and whether the substance is a pure entity or a mixture.

If matter is uniform throughout and can be separated into multiple substances by physical means, it is called a(n) ________________.

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