6.6 The Phase Rule
In order to understand the implications of the phase rule, we must understand the meaning of terms involved. These terms are as follows:
Homogeneous system: A material medium is said to be homogeneous when its properties (both physical and chemical) are the same in all parts of the medium. It is a system in which there are no surfaces of discontinuity in physical and chemical properties. A medium with such discontinuities is said to be heterogeneous. These surfaces of discontinuity are not surfaces in mathematical sense. They are regions of very small thickness which are of great importance in the study of surface phenomena like surface tension, absorption, contact potential and the like.
Phase: This is measured by the sum ...
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