Natural Science CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the difference between a solution and a suspension?

1. Suspensions settle, solutions do not

2. Solutions settle, suspensions do not

3. Solutions can be filtered, suspensions can not

4. Suspensions can be filtered, solutions can not

The correct answer is: Suspensions settle, solutions do not

Solutions and suspensions are two types of mixtures that are often compared to each other. A solution is a homogeneous mixture formed when a solute (usually a solid) is dissolved in a solvent (usually a liquid). On the other hand, a suspension is a heterogeneous mixture formed when small particles of a solid are dispersed throughout a liquid without dissolving. Option A is the correct answer because suspensions do indeed settle over time, as the solid particles are not dissolved and will eventually settle to the bottom. Solutions do not settle because the substances are dissolved and evenly dispersed throughout the mixture. Option B is incorrect because, as mentioned, solutions do not settle. Solutions have even distribution of particles and do not separate over time. Option C is also incorrect because solutions can be filtered, especially if the particles are large enough to be filtered out. Finally, option D is incorrect because