Question

select the correct answer.
a chemist divides a large sample of a mixture into three smaller portions. each of these portions contains different ratios of the component substances that make up the mixture. which description best fits the mixture?
a. compound
b. element
c. heterogeneous mixture
d. homogeneous mixture
e. pure substance

Explanation:

1. Recall the definitions: A compound (A) and element (B) are pure substances (E) with fixed compositions. A homogeneous mixture has uniform composition (so dividing it would give portions with same ratios). A heterogeneous mixture has non - uniform composition, so different portions can have different ratios of components.
2. Analyze the options: The mixture here has different ratios in different portions, so it's a heterogeneous mixture. Compounds, elements, and pure substances have fixed compositions. Homogeneous mixtures have uniform composition.

Answer:

C. heterogeneous mixture