Which best describes an element?

Subject : Chemistry

Question: Which best describes an element?

A) a pure substance

B) a type of a mixture

C) a pure compound

D) an impure substance

Expert Verified Solution:

The correct answer is:

A) a pure substance

Explanation:

An element is a pure substance that consists entirely of one type of atom. Elements are the simplest form of matter that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Each element is made up of atoms that have the same number of protons in their nuclei, which defines the element. Examples of elements include oxygen (O), carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and gold (Au).

Options B, C, and D are incorrect because:

B) a type of a mixture: An element is not a mixture. Mixtures consist of two or more substances (elements or compounds) that are physically combined, not chemically bonded.

C) a pure compound: A compound is a substance made of two or more elements that are chemically bonded. An element is not a compound.

D) an impure substance: An element is a pure substance, not an impure one. Impure substances are mixtures that contain multiple different elements or compounds.