How are substances in a mixture characterized in relation to their properties?

Substances in a mixture maintain their individual properties, which is a defining characteristic of mixtures. In a mixture, each component retains its own physical and chemical properties; they do not undergo any chemical change. For instance, in a salad composed of lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, each vegetable retains its flavor, texture, and nutritional value regardless of being mixed together. This property distinguishes mixtures from compounds, where the original substances undergo a chemical reaction and lose their individual characteristics.

The concept of preservation of properties in mixtures is crucial for understanding how different substances interact and coexist without forming new substances, as often seen in everyday examples such as oil and water, or sand and salt. This principle is fundamental in various scientific and culinary applications, highlighting the versatility and importance of mixtures in both theoretical and practical contexts.