However, oxygen can form compounds with other elements. Here are some common examples:
* Water (H₂O): Two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom.
* Carbon dioxide (CO₂): One carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms.
* Iron oxide (Fe₂O₃): This is commonly known as rust, and is formed when iron reacts with oxygen.
* Silicon dioxide (SiO₂): The primary component of sand and glass.
* Ozone (O₃): A molecule with three oxygen atoms.
* Oxygenated hydrocarbons: These are organic compounds containing oxygen in addition to carbon and hydrogen. Examples include alcohols (like ethanol), ketones (like acetone), and aldehydes (like formaldehyde).
This is just a small selection of the many compounds oxygen forms. Oxygen is a very reactive element and readily combines with other elements to create a vast array of compounds.