Compare the properties of elements and compounds. Give two examples of each, including one example that exists in the human body. Explain the atomic nature of one element and one compound found in human body.
Ashlee, we are here to help, not to write an term paper. Someone will be happy to review what you think. You might pick the element Co for one element in the human body since it has such importance.
The properties of elements and compounds can be compared in several ways. Here is a comparison of their properties:
1. Elements:
- Elements are pure substances and cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
- Each element is uniquely characterized by its atomic number, which represents the number of protons in the nucleus of its atoms.
- Elements exhibit specific chemical and physical properties that are determined by the arrangement and behavior of their atoms.
Example 1: Hydrogen (H) - Hydrogen is an element that exists as a gas at room temperature and is the lightest element on the periodic table. It is highly flammable and reacts explosively with oxygen to form water (H2O).
Example 2 (found in the human body): Carbon (C) - Carbon is a crucial element found in all living organisms. It forms the backbone of organic molecules like carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. Carbon is a solid at room temperature and exhibits various allotropes, including graphite and diamond.
2. Compounds:
- Compounds are substances composed of two or more different elements chemically combined in fixed ratios.
- The properties of compounds are distinct from their constituent elements. Compounds often have different physical and chemical properties than their individual elements.
- Compounds can be broken down into their constituent elements by chemical reactions.
Example 1: Water (H2O) - Water is a compound formed by the chemical combination of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. It is a liquid at room temperature and exhibits properties like high boiling and melting points, surface tension, and the ability to dissolve many substances.
Example 2 (found in the human body): Sodium chloride (NaCl) - Sodium chloride, commonly known as table salt, is a compound consisting of sodium (Na) and chlorine (Cl). It plays a vital role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction in the human body.
Atomic nature of an element found in the human body (Carbon): Carbon is an element that exists as atoms, each containing six protons in its nucleus. Carbon atoms can form covalent bonds with other elements, allowing it to create long chains or rings, giving rise to a wide variety of organic compounds necessary for life.
Atomic nature of a compound found in the human body (Water - H2O): Water is a compound formed by the covalent bonding of two hydrogen atoms with one oxygen atom. Each water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms attached to the oxygen atom, forming a bent structure. These molecules are held together by intermolecular forces, like hydrogen bonding, resulting in the liquid state of water at room temperature.