With a limited number of elements (less than 120 are known), does this mean we also have a small number of compounds? Or do we have a large number of compounds in this world?

Answer 1

Despite the limited number of elements known (less than 120), the number of possible compounds is virtually limitless. This is due to the ability of elements to combine in various proportions and arrangements to form different compounds. Additionally, the large number of possible combinations of elements and the ability to modify molecular structures further increase the diversity of compounds. Therefore, even with a limited number of elements, the number of compounds in the world is vast.