IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 03) Elements, Compounds, Mixtures & Separation

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08 Dec 2025, 00:00 Z

Q: What does IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 03) Elements, Compounds, Mixtures & Separation cover?
A: Differentiate elements, compounds, and mixtures, interpret particle diagrams, and choose appropriate separation techniques.

A clear view of particle composition lets you justify why certain apparatus combinations purify substances while others fail.

Learning targets

Classify matter using particle diagrams, chemical symbols, and formulae.
Write simple word and chemical equations with state symbols.
Select separation techniques suited to mixtures (solid-solid, solid-liquid, liquid-liquid).
Explain purification steps with annotated apparatus diagrams.

1. Matter classification

Type	Definition	Example	Particle view
Element	Substance made of one type of atom.	$\ce{O2}$

Mixture type	Goal	Technique	Key idea
Insoluble solid + liquid	Remove solid	Filtration	Filter paper traps residue; filtrate passes through.
Dissolved solid + liquid	Obtain solute	Evaporation to dryness	Heat to remove solvent; stop before spattering.
Dissolved solid + liquid	Obtain solute (without decomposition)	Crystallisation	Heat to concentrate, cool to form crystals.
Miscible liquids	Separate components by boiling point	Fractional distillation	Column allows vapours to condense separately.
Soluble solids with different solubilities	Separate pigments	Paper chromatography	Different affinities for mobile/stationary phases.

IP Combined Science Notes (Lower Sec, Year 1-2): 03) Elements, Compounds, Mixtures & Separation

Learning targets

1. Matter classification

2. Separation techniques overview

Worked example - Separating ink from water

3. Purification checks

Sample calculation

4. Safety & good practice

Try it yourself

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