Multiple Choice
In the classification of matter, what term describes a pure substance made of only one kind of atom?
2
views
3. Matter and Energy
Classification of Matter
Struggling with Introduction to Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
How does an element differ from a compound?
A
An element has a variable composition, whereas a compound always has a variable composition.
B
An element can be separated into simpler substances by a chemical reaction, whereas a compound cannot be separated by chemical means.
C
An element is a homogeneous mixture of substances, whereas a compound is a heterogeneous mixture of substances.
D
An element consists of only one type of atom, whereas a compound contains two or more different elements chemically bonded in a fixed ratio.
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 elements are chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio.
Recognize that the key difference lies in composition: Elements have only one kind of atom, while compounds have multiple kinds of atoms bonded together.
Note that compounds have a fixed, definite composition, meaning the ratio of elements in a compound is always the same, whereas elements are composed of only one type of atom and do not have varying compositions.
Summarize the distinction: Elements are the simplest form of matter with one type of atom, while compounds are more complex substances made from elements combined chemically in specific proportions.
1:34mWatch next
Master Classification of Matter with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Classification of Matter practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations