Elements are pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances chemically. They consist of only one type of atom. Example: Iron and copper.
An atom is the smallest particle of an element with the same properties. Atoms of a specific element have identical chemical makeup, size, and mass. Example: Carbon atoms.
There are 118 known elements, with some occurring naturally and others created in labs through nuclear processes.
Definition of Compounds
Compounds are molecules made from atoms of different elements bonded together. While all compounds are molecules, not all molecules are compounds. Example: Common salt (NaCl).
Physical changes do not alter the molecular structure, while chemical changes involve bond creation or destruction, forming a new substance. Example: Melting ice vs. curdling milk.
Compounds often have properties different from their constituent elements. When elements form compounds, they exhibit new behaviors. Learn more about this with expert help at eTutorWorld.com.