Introduction:
Copper and copper sulfate are both chemical substances, but they differ in their composition and properties. Copper is classified as an element, while copper sulfate is considered a compound. This distinction is based on the fundamental characteristics of these substances.

Definition of an Element:
An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical reactions. It consists of only one type of atom. Elements are represented by symbols, and copper is denoted by the symbol "Cu" on the periodic table. Copper atoms are identical and have the same number of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Properties of Copper:
Copper is a reddish-brown metal that is highly conductive to heat and electricity. It is malleable, ductile, and a good thermal and electrical conductor. These properties are inherent to copper as an element and are a result of its atomic structure. Copper's unique properties make it useful in various applications, such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and manufacturing of coins and jewelry.

Definition of a Compound:
A compound is a substance composed of two or more different elements chemically combined in fixed proportions. It is formed through a chemical reaction, and its properties differ from those of its constituent elements. Copper sulfate, on the other hand, is a compound that consists of copper, sulfur, and oxygen atoms chemically bonded together. Its chemical formula is CuSO4.

Properties of Copper Sulfate:
Copper sulfate appears as blue crystals or powder that dissolve easily in water. It is commonly used as an agricultural fungicide, in electrolysis processes, and in various laboratory applications. The properties of copper sulfate, including its solubility, crystal structure, and chemical reactivity, arise from the arrangement and interaction of its constituent elements.

Reasoning:
Copper is classified as an element because it is made up of only one type of atom, which cannot be further broken down by chemical means. It retains its characteristic properties regardless of its form or state.

On the other hand, copper sulfate is considered a compound because it results from a chemical reaction between copper, sulfur, and oxygen atoms. The combined properties of these elements give rise to the distinct properties and behavior of copper sulfate.

In conclusion, copper is called an element because it consists of only one type of atom, while copper sulfate is referred to as a compound because it is made up of different elements chemically bonded together. The classification of these substances is based on their composition and the fundamental characteristics observed at the atomic level.

Copper is said to be an element because it cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means while Copper sulphate is said to be a compound because it has copper and sulphur combined in a definite proportion and properties of copper sulphate are entirely different from copper and sulphur. NOTE: These questions can be answered by giving the properties of both.