In varieties of matter, the term heterogeneous is best applied to which of the following?

The term heterogeneous refers to a mixture that consists of visibly different substances or phases, meaning that the components can be distinguished from each other, and they do not form a uniform composition throughout. In a heterogeneous mixture, such as a salad or sand and salt, you can easily identify and separate the various components.

This idea contrasts with homogeneous mixtures, where the components are evenly distributed, creating a uniform appearance—such as in solutions like saltwater.

Elements and compounds, on the other hand, are considered pure substances. Elements are made up of a single type of atom, and compounds consist of two or more types of atoms chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio. Due to their defined composition and structure, they do not exhibit a heterogeneous nature.

Therefore, the term heterogeneous accurately applies only to mixtures and not to elements or compounds.