Though elements and compounds are similar in their classification as pure substances, there are differences in their compositions. Which statement correctly explains a key difference between the two?

Question

Though elements and compounds are similar in their classification as pure substances, there are differences in their compositions. Which statement correctly explains a key difference between the two?
A.
A compound is composed of only one type of atom, while an element is composed of two or more different types of atoms.
B.
A compound can be separated into different types of matter using physical means, while an element cannot.
C.
A compound is composed of two or more different types of atoms, while an element is composed of only one type of atom.
D.
A compound is two or more substances that combine due to a physical change, while an element forms due to a chemical change.

GPT-4o mini · Answer

The correct statement that explains a key difference between elements and compounds is:

C. A compound is composed of two or more different types of atoms, while an element is composed of only one type of atom.

This accurately describes the distinction between the two: elements consist of only one type of atom, while compounds consist of two or more different types of atoms that are chemically bonded together.