Explain why a mixture of alcohol and water is homogeneous, while a mixture of oil and water is heterogeneous.

The solution is said the be homogenous, if it contains single phase. On other hand, heterogenous system contains, multiple phase.
In present case, when alcohol and water are mixed with each other, it forms a single phase. Also, concentration is uniform through out. Hence, it is referred as homogeneous solution.
On other hand, when oil and water are mixed with each other, it forms a two phase. Hence, it is referred as heterogeneous solution.
Polar nature of alcohol favors formation of homogeneous solution with water.

Answered by PBCHEM | 2024-06-11

A homogeneous mixture is a combination of two or more substances that is so intimately mixed, that the mixture behaves as a single substance. On the other hand, a heterogeneous mixture has a composition that varies from point to point.
Italian dressing is an example of a heterogeneous mixture because its composition can vary due to the varying amounts of oil, vinegar, and herbs used. On the other hand, a mixture of alcohol and water is homogeneous because the alcohol and water molecules are completely miscible and form a single phase throughout.

Answered by QWCyan | 2024-06-19

A mixture of alcohol and water is homogeneous because both substances are polar and can form intermolecular interactions, resulting in an even distribution. In contrast, oil and water are heterogeneous because oil is nonpolar and does not mix with polar water, leading to the formation of distinct layers. This fundamental difference in polarity explains the behavior of these mixtures.
;

Answered by PBCHEM | 2024-12-18