Elements:
The simplest form of matter that cannot be broken down further by chemical means.
Made up of only one type of atom, which is the basic unit of an element.
Atoms of an element have the same number of protons in their nucleus, which determines their identity.
Examples of elements include iron (Fe), oxygen (O), hydrogen (H), and gold (Au).
Represented on the periodic table by a unique symbol.
Compounds:
Formed when two or more elements chemically combine in a fixed ratio.
The elements are held together by strong chemical bonds.
Have unique properties that differ from their elements.
Can be broken down into their constituent elements through chemical reactions.
Examples of compounds include water (H2O), table salt (NaCl), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sugar (C6H12O6).
Represented by a chemical formula that shows the types and proportions of atoms in the compound.
Mixtures:
A physical combination of two or more elements or compounds that are not chemically bonded.
The components of a mixture can be present in any proportion.
Can be separated by physical means like filtration, evaporation, or distillation.
The properties of a mixture are typically an average of the properties of its components.
Examples of mixtures include saltwater (salt and water), salad (various vegetables), and air (a mixture of gases like nitrogen and oxygen).