What do you call a homogeneous mixture formed when one substance dissolves in another?

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A homogeneous mixture formed when one substance dissolves in another is referred to as a solution. In a solution, the solute (the substance that is dissolved) is uniformly distributed within the solvent (the substance in which the solute is dissolved), resulting in a clear and stable mixture. This characteristic is what distinguishes solutions from other types of mixtures, such as suspensions or colloids, which do not achieve this level of uniformity and clarity.

In contrast, emulsion refers to a mixture of two immiscible liquids, where tiny droplets of one liquid are dispersed in another, typically leading to a cloudy or opaque appearance. Suspensions contain larger particles that are not completely dissolved in the solvent, which can settle out over time and do not create a clear liquid. Colloids consist of fine particles distributed throughout a continuous medium, but these particles are typically not completely dissolved, often resulting in a mixture that may appear cloudy or have a milky appearance.

These distinctions make it clear that the term "solution" accurately describes the scenario of a homogeneous mixture where one substance is completely dissolved in another.

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