REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
The classification of matter into pure substances and mixtures is a fundamental concept
in chemistry that has been extensively discussed in scientific literature. Brown et al. (2018)
defined pure substances as materials that have a uniform and definite chemical composition and
distinct physical and chemical properties. These substances are categorized as either elements or
compounds, and their consistent composition allows them to be identified through laboratory
observation. Understanding pure substances is essential because it provides the foundation for
explaining chemical behavior and reactions.
Elements are substances composed of only one type of atom and cannot be broken down
into simpler substances through ordinary chemical means. Zumdahl and Zumdahl (2020)
explained that elements are commonly classified as metals or non-metals based on observable
physical and chemical properties such as conductivity, malleability, and reactivity. These
properties are frequently demonstrated in laboratory experiments, allowing learners to
distinguish different types of elements through direct observation.
Compounds are substances formed when two or more elements chemically combine in
fixed proportions. According to Chang and Goldsby (2016), compounds possess physical and
chemical properties that differ from those of their constituent elements. These properties remain
constant regardless of the amount of compound present, making compounds suitable for
laboratory activities such as heating, decomposition, solubility testing, and reactions with
indicators. Chemical reactions are required to separate compounds into simpler substances.
Physical and chemical properties are important characteristics used to identify
substances. Physical properties such as color, state of matter, melting point, and solubility can be
observed without changing the chemical identity of a substance. Silberberg (2017) stated that
these properties help determine whether a change is physical in nature. Chemical properties, on
the other hand, describe a substance’s ability to undergo chemical changes that result in the
formation of new substances. Evidence of chemical change includes color change, gas formation,
heat release, and residue formation.
The distinction between physical and chemical changes is a key concept in introductory
chemistry. Tro (2019) explained that physical changes involve changes in form or state without
altering chemical composition, while chemical changes produce new substances with different
properties. Laboratory experiments involving burning, heating, and chemical reactions provide
clear examples of chemical changes and enhance students’ understanding of reaction processes.
Laboratory-based learning plays a significant role in reinforcing theoretical knowledge in
chemistry. Hofstein and Lunetta (2004) emphasized that hands-on laboratory activities improve
students’ observation skills, critical thinking, and understanding of scientific concepts.
Experiments involving pure substances help learners connect abstract chemical principles with
real-world observations, supporting effective learning in chemistry education.
Reference
Brown, T. L., LeMay, H. E., Bursten, B. E., Murphy, C. J., Woodward, P. M., & Stoltzfus,
M. W. (2018). Chemistry: The central science (14th ed.). Pearson.
Chang, R., & Goldsby, K. A. (2016). Chemistry (12th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
Hofstein, A., & Lunetta, V. N. (2004). The laboratory in science education: Foundations
for the twenty-first century. Science Education, 88(1), 28–54. [Link]
Silberberg, M. S. (2017). Chemistry: The molecular nature of matter and change (7 th ed.).
McGraw-Hill Education.
Tro, N. J. (2019). Introductory chemistry (5th ed.). Pearson.
Zumdahl, S. S., & Zumdahl, S. A. (2020). Chemistry (10th ed.). Cengage Learning.