What term describes a mixture where substances are evenly distributed?

A mixture where substances are evenly distributed is known as a solution. In a solution, one substance, typically called the solute, is dissolved in another substance, known as the solvent. This results in a homogeneous mixture where the components are not only mixed but are also at the molecular or ionic level, leading to an even distribution throughout the mixture.

For example, when table salt (sodium chloride) is added to water, it dissolves completely, creating a saline solution where the salt is evenly distributed at the molecular level. This even distribution allows for consistent properties throughout the solution, such as conductivity and concentration.

In contrast, a suspension refers to a heterogeneous mixture where solid particles are suspended in a liquid but are not dissolved, leading to a mixture that can settle over time. A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond together in a fixed ratio, resulting in a distinct substance with its own properties, whereas an element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Thus, the defining characteristic of a solution is its even distribution of components, which makes it the correct term for this question.