Homogeneous

Name:
Homogeneous
Detailed information:
(Latin, “the same kind”). This term, in its strict sense, describes the chemical constitution of a compound or element. A compound is homogeneous since it is composed of one and only one group of atoms represented by a formula. For example, pure water is homogeneous because it contains no other substance than is indicated by its formula, H₂O. Homogeneity is a characteristic property of compounds and elements (collectively called substances) as opposed to mixtures. The term is often loosely used to describe a mixture or solution composed of two or more compounds or elements that are uniformly dispersed in each other. Actually, no solution or mixture can be homogeneous; the situation is more accurately described by the phrase “uniformly dispersed.” Thus so-called homogenized milk is not truly homogeneous; it is a mixture in which the fat particles have been mechanically reduced to a size that permits uniform dispersion and consequent stability.See Mixture; Compound; Heterogeneous; Substance.