Is a compound a pure substance or a mixture? Explain your answer.

Short Answer

Expert verified
A compound is a pure substance, not a mixture. This is because it is made of two or more elements that are chemically bonded together, forming a substance with uniform and definite composition.

Step by step solution

01

Define Compound

A compound is a substance that is formed when two or more elements are chemically bonded together. The bond between the elements is strong, and it's difficult to break them apart. Examples of compounds include water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sodium chloride (NaCl).
02

Define Pure Substance

A pure substance is a form of matter that has a constant composition and properties that are constant throughout the sample. It is made up of only one type of particle. Examples of pure substances include elements (like iron or gold) and compounds (like water or sodium chloride).
03

Define Mixture

A mixture is a material made up of two or more different substances which are physically combined. A mixture can be composed of elements, compounds, or both, but they are not chemically bonded together. They can be separated into their components without a chemical reaction, unlike compounds. Examples of mixtures include air, salt water, and a salad.
04

Determine whether a compound is a pure substance or a mixture

Based on the definitions explained in the previous steps, a compound is a pure substance because it is made of two or more elements that are chemically bonded together, forming a substance with constant properties throughout. A compound is not a mixture because, even though it consists of two or more different substances, these substances are not physically combined but chemically combined.

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