Multiple Choice
Which type of matter can be physically separated into its components?
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1. Intro to General Chemistry
Classification of Matter
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Which of the following best describes how an element differs from a compound?
A
Elements are always gases, while compounds are always solids.
B
A compound is always a mixture of elements, while an element is always pure.
C
An element can be separated into simpler substances by chemical means, but a compound cannot.
D
An element consists of only one type of atom, while a compound contains two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the definition of an element: An element is a pure substance that consists of only one type of atom. It cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
Understand the definition of a compound: A compound is a pure substance formed when two or more different types of atoms chemically bond together in fixed proportions.
Recognize that elements are the simplest forms of matter and serve as the building blocks for compounds.
Note that compounds have properties different from the individual elements that compose them, due to the chemical bonds between atoms.
Conclude that the key difference is that an element contains only one type of atom, while a compound contains two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded.
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