Chemistry 11 · Chemistry · Lesson 11.3
The classification of matter
- Level
- Grade 11
- Reading time
- 14 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
Elements, compounds, solutions and mechanical mixtures.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Define system, phase, element, compound, solution and mechanical mixture
- 02Place a sample of matter into the classification scheme
- 03Distinguish pure substances, solutions and mechanical mixtures by their properties
A system is the part of the universe being studied in a given situation. A phase is any part of a system that is uniform in both composition and properties, separated from other phases by a visible boundary. When a copper rod sits in water, everything within the copper has the same properties and everything within the water has the same properties, so this is a two-phase system with a clear boundary where the copper meets the water.
School Plan
The classification of matter
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