Final answer:
A pure substance has a constant composition and set of properties, and can be an element or compound, while a mixture consists of two or more substances combined in variable proportions, maintaining their individual properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between a pure substance and a mixture lies in their composition and properties. A pure substance is a form of matter with a constant composition and properties that are the same throughout the sample. This can include both elements, composed of only one type of atom, and compounds, which consist of two or more types of atoms in fixed proportions. On the other hand, a mixture is composed of two or more types of atoms or molecules that are physically combined in variable proportions, and the composition can differ from one sample to another. Mixtures can be separated again into their pure substances without involving a chemical change, and they can be either homogeneous (the same throughout) or heterogeneous (different compositions in different parts).