Question

Define the term solution. How many types of solutions are formed? Write briefly about each type with an example.

Answer 1

When two or more substances combine together uniformly or non-uniformly such that they can be separated through physical means is known as a mixture. Mixtures are of two types which are homogenous mixtures and heterogeneous mixtures. In a homogenous mixture, substances are mixed uniformly with each other. In a heterogenous mixture, substances are not mixed uniformly with each other. A solution is a type of homogenous mixture.

Complete Step by step solution:
A mixture which consists of one or more solutes dissolved uniformly in a solvent is known as a solution. The substance in minor quantities that is dissolved in a solvent is known as a solute. The substance in major quantity, in which the solute is dissolved is known as a solvent.
There are seven different types of solutions formed. They are as follows,
Gas in gas: In this type of solution, one or more gases are dissolved in another gas. The example of gas in gas solution is oxygen in air.
Gas in liquid: In this type of solution, one or more gases are dissolved in a liquid. The example of gas in liquid solution is oxygen dissolved in water.
Liquid in liquid: In this type of solution, one or more liquids are dissolved in a liquid. The example of liquid in liquid solution is ethanol in water forming alcoholic beverages.
Solid in liquid: In this type of solution, one or more solids are dissolved in a liquid. The example of solid in liquid solution is salt in water.
Gas in solid: In this type of solution, one or more gases are dissolved in a solid. The example of gas in solid solution is hydrogen in palladium.
Liquid in solid: In this type of solution, one or more liquids are dissolved in a solid. The example of liquid in solid solution is mercury in gold forming amalgam.
Solid in solid: In this type of solution, one or more solids are dissolved in a solid. The example of solid in solid solution is an alloy like bronze.

Note:
Substances which can mix together to form a solution are known as miscible. Substances which cannot mix together to form a solution are known as immiscible.