AFOQT Practice Test

What is a solution?

1. A type of heterogeneous mixture

2. A solid compound

3. A homogeneous mixture of two or more substances

4. An element in its pure form

The correct answer is: A homogeneous mixture of two or more substances

A solution is defined as a homogeneous mixture of two or more substances where the solute is uniformly distributed within the solvent. This means that the components of the solution are mixed at a molecular level, making it difficult to distinguish between the individual substances. For example, when salt is dissolved in water, the salt particles break apart and spread evenly throughout the water, creating a solution where the properties are the same throughout. In contrast, the other options do not accurately define a solution. A heterogeneous mixture does not have a uniform composition, which is contrary to the definition of a solution. A solid compound refers to a distinct chemical substance that is not mixed with others, rather than a mixture. An element in its pure form is not a mixture at all, but a substance made up of only one type of atom. Thus, the correct answer accurately captures the nature of what a solution is.