Classification of Matter: Examples and Explanations

 What Is Matter?

• Matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms.

• It can exist in different forms, like solid, liquid, and gas.

• Everything you see, touch, or feel is made of matter.

Classification of Matter

1.Pure Substances

2.Mixtures

1.Pure Substances

They are further divided into:

(a) Elements

• Made of only one type of atom.

• Cannot be broken down into simpler substances.

• Examples: Gold, Oxygen, Carbon.

(b) Compounds

• Made of two or more elements chemically combined.

• Have a fixed ratio of elements.

• Examples: Water (H₂O), Salt (NaCl), Sugar.

2.Mixtures

They can be separated by physical methods like filtration or evaporation.

They are divided into:

(a) Homogeneous Mixtures

• Uniform composition throughout.

• Components are evenly mixed.

• Examples: Saltwater, Air.

(b) Heterogeneous Mixtures

• Non-uniform composition.

• Components can be easily seen and separated.

• Examples: Sand in water, Salad.

States of Matter

(a) Solids

• Fixed shape and volume.

• Particles are tightly packed.

• Examples: Ice, Wood.

(b) Liquids

• No fixed shape, but a fixed volume.

• Particles can move but stay close.

• Examples: Water, Oil.

(c) Gases

• No fixed shape or volume.

• Particles move freely and are far apart.

• Examples: Oxygen, Steam.

(d) Plasma

• High-energy state where particles are ionized.

• Found in stars and lightning.

Changing States of Matter

• Melting: Solid to liquid (e.g., Ice to water).

• Freezing: Liquid to solid (e.g., Water to ice).

• Evaporation: Liquid to gas (e.g., Water to steam).

• Condensation: Gas to liquid (e.g., Steam to water).

• Sublimation: Solid to gas (e.g., Dry ice to CO₂ gas).