Here's why:

* Compounds: These are substances formed when two or more elements chemically combine in a fixed ratio. For example, water (H₂O) is a compound made of hydrogen and oxygen.

* Mixture: A mixture is a combination of two or more substances where each substance retains its own chemical identity. The substances in a mixture are not chemically bonded.

Key characteristics of mixtures:

* Variable composition: The ratio of components in a mixture can vary.

* No new substance formed: The components of a mixture retain their original properties.

* Components can be separated by physical means: Methods like filtration, distillation, or evaporation can be used to separate the components.

Examples of mixtures:

* Salt water: Salt (NaCl) and water (H₂O)

* Air: A mixture of gases like nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide

* Sand and water: Sand (SiO₂) and water (H₂O)

* Sugar and water: Sugar (C₁₂H₂₂O₁₁) and water (H₂O)

Let me know if you have any more questions!