Elements are composed of atoms, and compounds are composed of two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded together.

Here's a breakdown:

* Elements: The simplest pure substances that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. They are made up of only one type of atom. Examples include carbon (C), oxygen (O), and gold (Au).

* Compounds: Substances formed when two or more different elements combine chemically in a fixed ratio. The atoms in a compound are held together by chemical bonds. Examples include water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂), and sodium chloride (NaCl).

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