Elements, Compounds and Mixtures

Elements, Compounds and Mixtures

1. Elements

   • An element is a substance which cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means
   • Elements are made up of only one type of atom
   • Copper is an example of an element because it is made up of only copper atoms

2. An atom is the smallest part of an element that still has the properties of the element

3. Compounds

   • A compound is formed when two or more elements combine together chemically
   • A molecule is the smallest part of an element or compound that can exist on its own
   • The elements that make up compounds are always present in fixed amounts

4. Mixtures

   • Consists of Two or more different substances mingled together but not chemically bonded