Is chili powder and iron filings a solution or mixture?

* Solutions are homogeneous mixtures where one substance (the solute) dissolves completely into another substance (the solvent). The resulting solution has a uniform composition throughout.

* Mixtures are combinations of substances where each substance retains its own properties. They can be heterogeneous (components are not evenly distributed) or homogeneous (components are evenly distributed).

Chili powder and iron filings don't dissolve into each other. They remain as separate substances, even if you mix them thoroughly. You'll still be able to see the individual particles of chili powder and iron filings, making it a heterogeneous mixture.