What is a Compound?
A compound is a chemical substance composed of two or more different types of elements that are chemically bonded together. In a compound, the combined elements lose their individual characteristics and form a new substance with unique properties.
For example, water is a compound made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, bonded together through covalent bonds. Water has unique properties such as the ability to dissolve various substances, a high boiling point and the ability to exist in all three physical states (gas, liquid and solid).
What is a Mixture?
A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that are physically combined, but not chemically bonded. In a mixture, the individual substances still retain their own distinct properties and can be separated out through physical means.
For example, salt water is a mixture made up of salt and water. The salt and water are physically combined and can be separated out through processes such as distillation or evaporation. The salt and water retain their individual properties and characteristics.
The Key Difference between a Compound and a Mixture
The key difference between a compound and a mixture lies in their chemical bonding. In a compound, the constituent elements are chemically bonded together, forming a new substance with unique properties. In a mixture, the constituent substances are physically combined, retaining their individual properties and characteristics.
Another difference between a compound and a mixture is that compounds have a fixed chemical composition, while mixtures can have variable compositions. The properties of a compound are determined by the ratio of its constituent elements, whereas the properties of a mixture can vary depending on the amount of each substance present.
In conclusion, understanding the difference between a compound and a mixture is crucial in chemistry. Compounds and mixtures have unique properties and characteristics, and their differences lie in their chemical bonding and composition.
Table difference between a compound and a mixture
| Property | Compound | Mixture |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A substance formed by the chemical combination of two or more elements in fixed proportions | A combination of two or more substances in which they retain their individual chemical properties |
| Components | Pure substances in fixed ratios | Elements or compounds in any proportion |
| Chemical properties | Distinct from the properties of its individual components; cannot be separated by physical means | Retains the chemical properties of its individual components; can be separated by physical means |
| Examples | Water (H2O), Sodium Chloride (NaCl) | Air, Salad, Trail mix |