Homogeneous solutions are solutions with uniform composition and properties throughout the solution. For example a cup of coffee, perfume, cough syrup, a solution of salt or sugar in water, etc. Heterogeneous solutions are solutions with non-uniform composition and properties throughout the solution.

A homogeneous mixture has a uniform composition and appearance. Individual substances that constitute a homogeneous mixture cannot be visually differentiated. On the other hand, a heterogeneous mixture comprises two or more substances that can be distinctly observed, and even separated relatively easily.

Heterogonous mixtures are ones in which their constituents do not mix uniformly, while homogenous mixtures are ones in which they mix uniformly. Uniformity means all the constituent particles are evenly distributed and are indistinguishable from each other. An example of a heterogeneous mixture would be a stew.

The word heterogeneous is the opposite—it generally describes things that are made up of elements that are unalike. Scientifically speaking, a homogeneous mixture is one in which different parts (such as salt and water) have been uniformly combined into a new substance (salt water), while a heterogeneous mixture has parts that remain separate.