The molecular illustration represents (LO 2.18) (a) a pure element (b) a mixture of two elements (c) a pure compound (d) a mixture of an element and a compound

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definitions of the terms involved. A pure element consists of only one type of atom. A mixture of two elements contains two different types of atoms not chemically bonded. A pure compound consists of molecules made from two or more different types of atoms chemically bonded. A mixture of an element and a compound contains both unbonded atoms and molecules.
2. Step 2: Analyze the molecular illustration provided. Identify the types of particles present in the illustration.
3. Step 3: Determine if the particles are atoms or molecules. Atoms represent elements, while molecules represent compounds.
4. Step 4: Check if the particles are all the same or if there are different types. This will help determine if the illustration represents a pure substance or a mixture.
5. Step 5: Based on the analysis, match the illustration to one of the options: (a) a pure element, (b) a mixture of two elements, (c) a pure compound, or (d) a mixture of an element and a compound.

Key Concepts

Pure Element

A pure element consists of only one type of atom and cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Examples include oxygen (O2) and gold (Au). Understanding pure elements is essential for distinguishing them from compounds and mixtures.

Pure Compound

A pure compound is a substance formed when two or more different types of atoms bond chemically in fixed proportions. Water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are examples. Recognizing pure compounds is crucial for identifying chemical compositions in molecular illustrations.

Mixture

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances where each retains its individual properties and can be separated by physical means. Mixtures can be homogeneous (uniform composition) or heterogeneous (distinct phases). Understanding mixtures helps differentiate them from pure substances in molecular representations.