Categories of Matter: Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures

These flashcards review the defining characteristics and distinctions among elements, compounds, and mixtures, covering purity, composition, methods of separation, and representation on the periodic table.

What type of atom(s) does an element’s chemical formula contain?

Only one type of atom.

How many capital letters does a chemical formula for an element typically have?

One capital letter.

What distinguishes a compound’s chemical formula from an element’s?

A compound’s formula contains more than one capital letter, indicating multiple types of atoms.

Which categories of matter are classified as pure substances?

Elements and compounds.

Can a pure substance be purified by physical methods? Why or why not?

No; it is already pure.

Which category of matter can be chemically decomposed into simpler substances?

Compounds can be decomposed into their constituent elements.

Why do compounds have definite or fixed proportions?

Because their elements combine in a specific, unchanging ratio by chemical bonds.

Where are elements found in reference resources?

On the periodic table of the elements.

How do mixtures differ from pure substances in terms of chemical formulas?

Mixtures contain multiple chemical formulas, each representing an element or compound.

Describe the proportions of components in a mixture.

They are variable or indefinite (not fixed).

What type of methods can separate mixtures into their components?

Physical methods such as filtration, distillation, or chromatography.

Are compounds or mixtures listed on the periodic table? Why or why not?

No; only single elements appear on the periodic table, whereas compounds and mixtures consist of two or more elements.