Elements, Compounds & Mixtures



Before we talk about the different types of chemical bonds, we will need to distinguish elements, compounds and mixtures from one another.

Compound is formed when two or more different types of elements are chemically combined together.

Difference between element and compound

ElementCompound
Simplest form of matterConsists of two or more different types of elements chemically combined together
1 type of atom2 or more types of atoms
Cannot be decomposed into simpler substance by chemical meansCan be decomposed into simpler substance by chemical means

Mixture is formed by physically mixing two or more substances together. (No chemical reaction is involved)

  • Element + element mixture
  • Element + compound mixture
  • Compound + compound mixture

 

Difference between mixture and compound

CompoundMixture
Constituents present in fixed proportionsConstituents present in various proportions
Formed by chemical reactionNot formed by chemical reaction
Have properties different from properties of constituentsHave properties same as properties of constituents
Constituents are separated by chemical meansConstituents are separated by physical means

 

Recall that elements are divided into metal and non-metal. When two or more metals are mixed together, an alloy is formed. The common reason for mixing metals together is that their mixture is harder and stronger than their base metals.

The table below shows the difference between metal and non-metal.

MetalNon-metal
AppearanceShinyDull
Melting point/Boiling pointHighLow
DensitiesHighLow
MalleableYesNo
ConductivityGood conductor of heat and electricityBad conductor of heat and electricity

 


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