Here's why:
* Compounds are formed when two or more different elements combine chemically. This means that the atoms of the elements share or transfer electrons to form chemical bonds.
* Chemical bonds hold atoms together. These bonds can be ionic (where electrons are transferred) or covalent (where electrons are shared).
* The properties of a compound are different from the properties of the elements that make it up. For example, water (H₂O) is a liquid at room temperature, while hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) are both gases.
Examples of compounds:
* Water (H₂O)
* Carbon dioxide (CO₂)
* Sodium chloride (NaCl)
* Glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆)
In contrast, mixtures are not chemically bonded together. The components of a mixture retain their individual properties and can be separated by physical means. For example, sand and water form a mixture.
