2.1 CHAPTER 2. CLASSIFICATION OF MATTER
to its different properties. As you read further in this chapter, you will see that there are
also other ways of classifying materials, for example according to whether or not they are
good electrical conductors.
MATTER
MIXTURES PURE SUBSTANCES
Homogeneous Heterogeneous Elements Compounds
Metals Non-metals
Magnetic Non-magnetic
Figure 2.2: The classification of matterActivity: What materials are products made of?
This activity looks at the materials that make up
food products. In groups of 3 or 4 look at the la-
bels on food items. Make a list of the ingredients.
Can you tell from the ingredients what the food
is (i.e. spice, oil, sweets, etc.)? Food products are
labelled to help you (the consumer) know what
you are eating and to help you choose healthier
alternatives. Some compounds, such as MSG and
tartrazine are being removed from products due
to being regarded as unsafe. Are there other in-
gredients in the products that are unsafe to eat?
What preservatives and additives (e.g. tartrazine,
MSG, colourants) are there? Are these preserva-
tives and additives good for you? Are there natural
(from plants) alternatives? What do different in-
digenous people groups use to flavor and preserve
their food?Some labels on food
items24 Chemistry: Matter and Materials