Question

What is a combination of two or more elements chemically combined?

Answer 1

Hint: In any chemical reaction, atoms are the smallest particles. Elements are considered as the simplest form of matter. They cannot be broken by any physical or chemical means. Two or more elements combine in definite proportions chemically to form compounds.

Complete step by step answer:
 Elements are the simplest form of matter whereas molecules are the simplest form of matter which can have an independent existence. Molecules can contain any number of atoms. Atoms have the same number of protons and electrons. So, it is a neutral particle. Matter consists of mixtures and also pure substances. Mixtures can be separated into their components by physical means whereas pure substances cannot be separated into their components by any physical means. If the pure substance is an elemental substance, then it is an element. If the pure substance is a compound substance, then it is a compound. Examples include water $H_2O$ and table salt $NaCl$.

Therefore, a combination of two or more elements chemically combined is called a compound.


Note: A molecule can have two or more atoms of the same element or different elements. A compound consists of atoms of two or more different elements. The properties of resultant compounds are different from those of the properties of elements from which they are formed. Compounds can be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means but cannot be broken by physical means. In a compound, the ratio of component atoms remains the same. Therefore, a combination of two or more elements chemically combined is a compound.