Compounds
Compounds are a pivotal topic in the study of matter. They are defined as substances formed when two or more different elements chemically combine in fixed proportions. This chemical bonding distinguishes compounds from mixtures, where substances maintain their individual properties and can be physically separated.
Types of Compounds
- Molecular Compounds: These consist of molecules formed by covalent bonds between nonmetals. For example, water (H₂O) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
- Ionic Compounds: Formed by the transfer of electrons from metals to nonmetals, resulting in electrostatic attraction. A common example is sodium chloride (NaCl).
Understanding compounds is essential as they form the basis for most chemical reactions, including those that sustain life, enable technological advances, and impact environmental processes.