What is the definition of heterogeneous?

The term "heterogeneous" refers to a mixture or composition that is made up of dissimilar or different elements. This concept is often used in contexts such as chemistry, materials science, and biology to describe mixtures that do not have a uniform composition. For example, a salad contains different ingredients such as lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, which can be easily distinguished from each other, making it a heterogeneous mixture.

In contrast, options that describe consistency and uniformity do not align with the meaning of "heterogeneous." A composition consisting of similar elements would be described as homogeneous, which indicates uniformity and a lack of variation. Therefore, the choice that correctly reflects the definition of heterogeneous as containing dissimilar elements is the appropriate one. This understanding is fundamental when discussing properties of materials or biological populations, as it highlights the diversity within different systems.