* Elements are the simplest pure substances that cannot be broken down further by chemical means (like oxygen, hydrogen, gold).
* Compounds are formed when two or more elements chemically combine in a fixed ratio (like water, H₂O).
Seawater contains a variety of substances, including:
* Water (H₂O): This is the main component.
* Salts: Primarily sodium chloride (NaCl), but also magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, and others.
* Dissolved gases: Oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide.
* Organic compounds: From living organisms and their decomposition.
* Minerals: In very small amounts.
Because these components are not chemically bonded in a fixed ratio, seawater is a mixture. It's specifically a homogeneous mixture, meaning the components are evenly distributed throughout.
