Which statement describes how chemical formulas, such as H2O, represent compounds?

They show the types of molecules that make up an atom.
They show the elements that make up a compound.
They show the three-dimensional shape of a molecule.
They show the types of bonds that exist between elements.

1 answer

The correct statement is: They show the elements that make up a compound.

Chemical formulas, such as H₂O, indicate the types and quantities of atoms present in a compound, specifically showing which elements are included and how many of each type are present. In the case of H₂O, it shows that the compound is made up of two hydrogen atoms (H) and one oxygen atom (O).