Exploring Diversity of Matter

ECD CONTENT › What Matter Comprises Elements and/or Compounds That Are Not Chemically Combined?

BUILD A SCIENTIFIC MODEL

What is in a sample of matter?

Scientists use models to reason about particles too small to see. The colour of a particle in this model represents a different type of atom.

Particle models comparing an element, a compound and a mixture

A model is not a photograph. It helps us explain what we cannot see directly.

ElementOne type of atom.

CompoundAtoms chemically joined in a fixed ratio.

MixtureDifferent particles together, not chemically joined.

Key idea: The substances in a mixture keep many of their own properties. Suitable physical methods can often separate them.

SLS ACTIVITY A1

Sort the samples: element, compound or mixture?

Drag each sample into the correct evidence tray. On a touch device or keyboard, select a sample first, then select its tray.

Formative check · 10 objects

Scientist’s question: Which samples contain particles that are not chemically joined?

Sample bank

Evidence trays

Element

One type of atom

Compound

Atoms chemically joined in a fixed ratio

Mixture

Different substances, not chemically joined

Sort all 10 samples, then check your evidence.

SLS ACTIVITY A2

Separate a model mixture safely

Use the property of each substance to obtain iron filings, aluminium pieces and salt without making a new substance.

Inquiry virtual lab

Safety boundary: This virtual lab models teacher-supervised procedures. Never taste laboratory substances. Heat only with suitable equipment and adult supervision.

SEPARATION BENCH

Investigation record

Start by choosing the magnet. Which substance has the magnetic property?

Step	Observation
No observations recorded yet.

Change one property-based method at a time and record what it does.