What is a common example of a heterogeneous mixture?

A common example of a heterogeneous mixture is soil. This is because soil is composed of various components that can be physically identified and separated. It typically includes organic matter, minerals, air, water, and a variety of microorganisms, each contributing to its overall composition. The distinct layers and varying materials within soil make it an ideal representation of a heterogeneous mixture, where the different components can be seen and are not uniformly distributed.

In contrast, saltwater, air, and vinegar are homogeneous mixtures. In saltwater, the salt completely dissolves and cannot be easily identified as a separate component. Similarly, air is a mixture of gases that are uniformly mixed, and the individual gases cannot be seen. Vinegar is a solution of acetic acid in water, where the components are evenly distributed. Therefore, soil stands out as a clear example of a heterogeneous mixture due to its varied and identifiable components.