Elements vs Compounds
Elements and compounds are both types of substances, but they have distinct differences.

Elements
- Definition: Elements are pure substances made up of only one type of atom. They cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical reactions.
- Examples: Some examples of elements include hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and iron.
- Properties: Each element has its own unique set of properties, such as melting point, boiling point, density, and atomic mass.
- Representation: Elements are represented on the periodic table by their chemical symbols (e.g., H for hydrogen, O for oxygen).
- Classification: Elements are classified into different categories based on their properties, such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids.

Compounds
- Definition: Compounds are substances made up of two or more different elements chemically combined in fixed proportions.
- Examples: Some examples of compounds include water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sodium chloride (NaCl).
- Properties: Compounds have properties that are different from the elements that make them up. For example, sodium chloride is a white crystalline solid, even though sodium is a soft metal and chlorine is a green gas.
- Representation: Compounds are represented by chemical formulas that show the types and numbers of atoms in the compound.
- Formation: Compounds are formed through chemical reactions where atoms of different elements combine in specific ratios.
In summary, elements are pure substances made up of one type of atom, while compounds are substances made up of two or more different elements chemically combined. Each has its own unique set of properties and can be represented in different ways.