When classifying matter, which of the following best describes a buoy with both red and green bands?

• A. A compound, because it is made of two or more elements chemically combined.
• B. A mixture, because it contains more than one type of substance.
• C. A pure substance, because it has a uniform composition throughout.
• D. An element, because it is made of only one type of atom.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of key terms in matter classification: an element is a pure substance made of only one type of atom; a compound is a pure substance formed when two or more elements are chemically combined in fixed proportions; a mixture contains two or more substances physically combined, not chemically bonded, and can have variable composition; a pure substance has uniform composition throughout.
2. Step 2: Analyze the buoy with red and green bands as described. Since it has two different colored bands, it suggests the presence of more than one type of substance or material.
3. Step 3: Determine if the substances are chemically combined or just physically mixed. The red and green bands are likely separate materials placed together, not chemically bonded, indicating a physical mixture rather than a compound.
4. Step 4: Conclude that because the buoy contains more than one type of substance physically combined, it fits the definition of a mixture rather than a pure substance, element, or compound.
5. Step 5: Therefore, the best classification for the buoy with both red and green bands is a mixture, as it contains multiple substances combined physically without chemical bonding.