Here's why:

* Elements are the basic building blocks of matter, made up of only one type of atom (e.g., oxygen, carbon, gold).

* Compounds are formed when two or more different elements combine chemically in a fixed ratio. The atoms of these elements are held together by chemical bonds, forming a new substance with properties distinct from the original elements.

Examples of compounds:

* Water (H₂O): Two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom bonded together.

* Sodium chloride (NaCl): One sodium atom and one chlorine atom bonded together.

* Carbon dioxide (CO₂): One carbon atom and two oxygen atoms bonded together.