Classify each of the following as an element, a compound, or a mixture:
b. a salad dressing of oil and vinegar

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of the terms 'element,' 'compound,' and 'mixture.' An element is a pure substance made of only one type of atom. A compound is a pure substance composed of two or more elements chemically combined in a fixed ratio. A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are physically combined and can be separated by physical means.
2. Step 2: Analyze the given substance, which is a salad dressing made of oil and vinegar. Note that oil and vinegar are two distinct substances.
3. Step 3: Determine if the components (oil and vinegar) are chemically combined or physically combined. In this case, oil and vinegar are physically combined, as they do not chemically react with each other.
4. Step 4: Consider whether the mixture is homogeneous or heterogeneous. Since oil and vinegar do not mix uniformly and form separate layers, this is a heterogeneous mixture.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the salad dressing of oil and vinegar is classified as a mixture, specifically a heterogeneous mixture, because it consists of two physically combined substances that are not uniformly distributed.

Key Concepts

Element

An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. It consists of only one type of atom and is represented on the periodic table. Examples include hydrogen, oxygen, and gold. Elements are the fundamental building blocks of matter.

Compound

A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond together in fixed proportions. Compounds have unique properties that differ from the individual elements that compose them. Water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are common examples of compounds, showcasing how elements combine to create new substances.

Mixture

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that retain their individual properties and can be separated by physical means. Mixtures can be homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (distinct components). The salad dressing of oil and vinegar is a heterogeneous mixture, as the oil and vinegar do not chemically combine and can be visually distinguished.