Explain how compounds and mixtures differ.
1 Answer
A compound is two or more elements bonded together. A mixture can contain any number of elements and may or may not be bonded together.
Elements are bonded together covalently (sharing of electrons) or ionically (donating of electrons). When this movement of electrons occurs, the elements now share properties. For example, sodium (Na+) and chlorine (Cl-) will bond ionically. Sodium has an extra electron in its outermost shell and chlorine is missing one, so the extra sodium electron is donated to the chlorine. Remember, sodium is a highly reactive, explosive solid and chlorine is a toxic gas. Once a compound is formed (NaCl) it is something that can be used on french fries.
A mixture is a collection of elements or other materials. Mixtures can be homogeneous (where the different parts cannot be seen) or heterogeneous (where the individual parts can be identified). The best mixed of all the mixtures are called solutions. PIcture a pitcher of Kool-Aid. Within the solution there is water, sugar, and the flavoring mix. However, since this is a homogeneous mixture, the individual parts cannot be identified. Air and ocean water are other examples of homogeneous mixtures.
An example of a heterogeneous mixture would be a taco salad. In the bowl you can see the lettuce, the tomato, the chips, and all the other veggies. Beach sand is another example of a heterogeneous mixture.
