The term "chemical compound" refers to a substance composed of two or more elements that are chemically bonded together in fixed proportions. These elements combine to form a new substance with unique properties different from the individual elements.
Differences between mixture and chemical compound:
1. Composition:
- In a mixture, the components are physically mixed together and can be separated using physical methods like filtration or evaporation. The composition of a mixture can vary, and the properties of its components remain unchanged.
- In a chemical compound, the elements are chemically bonded in a fixed ratio, forming a new substance with distinct properties. Chemical compounds cannot be separated into their original elements by physical means.
2. Properties:
- Mixtures exhibit the properties of their individual components. For example, a mixture of salt and sand will retain the properties of salt and sand.
- Chemical compounds have unique properties different from the elements that form them. For instance, water (H2O) is a chemical compound with properties distinct from hydrogen and oxygen individually.
Understanding these differences is essential in chemistry as it helps distinguish between substances with varying compositions and properties.
