What is a combination of elements and compounds that are not chemically combined and can be separated by physical means?

A mixture is defined as a combination of two or more substances, such as elements or compounds, that are not chemically bonded together. In a mixture, each component retains its own properties and can be separated from one another using physical methods. This could include techniques like filtration, distillation, or decantation, which do not alter the chemical identities of the substances involved.

For instance, if you have a mixture of sand and salt, the two can be physically separated because they do not react chemically. This characteristic of mixtures is what distinguishes them from solutions, compounds, and alloys, where interactions between components can be chemically significant or not separable through physical means.

In contrast, solutions involve one substance being dissolved in another, resulting in a uniform composition that is more difficult to separate. Compounds are formed when two or more elements chemically bond to create a new substance with properties different from the individual elements, and alloys are specific types of mixtures (typically metals) that have been combined to enhance certain properties. Thus, the correct identification of a mixture indicates an understanding of basic concepts in chemistry relating to how substances interact and can be manipulated.