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.
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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.
To compare the properties of elements and compounds, let's first understand what each term means:
1. Elements: Elements are substances composed of only one type of atom. They are the simplest form of matter and cannot be broken down into simpler substances by ordinary chemical means.
2. Compounds: Compounds are substances composed of two or more different elements chemically combined in fixed ratios. Unlike elements, compounds can be broken down into their constituent elements through chemical reactions.
Now, let's compare their properties:
Properties of Elements:
- Elements are pure substances that exist in nature.
- They have unique physical and chemical properties.
- Elements are represented by symbols on the periodic table.
- They cannot be further broken down into simpler substances.
- Each element has a specific number of protons in its nucleus, which determines its atomic number.
Example 1: Hydrogen (H) as an element. Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe. It exists as diatomic molecules (H2) in its elemental form.
Atomic nature of Hydrogen: Hydrogen is the first element on the periodic table and has one proton in its nucleus. It also has one electron orbiting the nucleus. Its atomic number is 1, and its atomic mass is approximately 1 amu (atomic mass unit).
Example 2: Oxygen (O) as an element. Oxygen is the third most abundant element on Earth, and it is essential for supporting life and combustion processes. It exists as a diatomic gas (O2) in its elemental form.
Atomic nature of Oxygen: Oxygen has 8 protons in its nucleus and 8 electrons orbiting the nucleus. Its atomic number is 8, and its atomic mass is approximately 16 amu.
Properties of Compounds:
- Compounds have different physical and chemical properties compared to their constituent elements.
- They can be formed by combining elements in fixed ratios.
- Compounds can be separated into their elements by chemical reactions.
- They have unique names and chemical formulas.
Example 1: Water (H2O) as a compound. Water is a vital compound for all known forms of life. It consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom chemically bonded together.
Atomic nature of Water: In a water molecule, two hydrogen atoms (element) are covalently bonded with one oxygen atom (element). This covalent bond involves the sharing of electrons between the atoms, forming a stable molecule.
Example 2: Glucose (C6H12O6) as a compound. Glucose is an essential organic compound used as an energy source in living organisms. It consists of six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms.
Atomic nature of Glucose: In a glucose molecule, six carbon atoms (element) are bonded with twelve hydrogen atoms (element) and six oxygen atoms (element). The arrangement of these atoms allows glucose to function as a source of energy in the human body.
In summary, the key difference between elements and compounds lies in the composition and ability to be broken down. Elements are made up of only one type of atom and cannot be broken down further, whereas compounds are formed by bonding different elements together and can be decomposed into their constituent elements. Understanding the atomic nature of specific elements and compounds helps explain their properties and roles within the human body.