In Chemistry, understanding different types of substances and how they are classified is essential. Let's explore the definitions and examples of elements, molecules, compounds, and mixtures:
Element :
Definition : A substance made from only one type of atom.
Example : Helium (He) is an element because it consists solely of helium atoms.
Molecule :
Definition : Two or more atoms chemically joined together.
Example : Oxygen gas (O₂) is a molecule because it is made of two oxygen atoms bonded together.
Compound :
Definition : Two or more different atoms chemically joined together.
Example : Water (H₂O) is a compound because it is composed of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom bonded together.
Mixture :
Definition : Different elements, molecules, or compounds not chemically joined together.
Example : Air, which is a mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases, is not chemically bonded into a single substance.
Understanding these basic concepts is vital in Chemistry as they help us comprehend the nature of different substances and how they interact in various processes.