Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures

An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Examples include hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), and gold (Au).

No, elements cannot be broken down into simpler substances.

A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. An example is sugar (C12H22O11).

Sugar is a compound.

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are not chemically bonded. Examples include air, milk, and gasoline.

Air is a mixture.

The two types of mixtures are homogeneous mixtures (uniform composition) and heterogeneous mixtures (distinct, separate components).

An example of a homogeneous mixture is saltwater.

An example of a heterogeneous mixture is a salad.

A compound is a substance formed from two or more elements chemically bonded, while a mixture is a physical combination of substances that retain their individual properties.