Question

Is it possible for two different compounds to be made from the exact same two elements? Why or why not? With a limited number of elements (less than 120 are known), does this mean we also have a small number of compounds or do we have a large number of compounds in this world?

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Answer 1

Yes. The two elements can combine to form different compounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

Two elements can combine at different ratios.

Consider CO and CO₂. Both are made from carbon and oxygen. However, C and O combine at a 1:1 ratio in CO but at a 1:2 ratio in CO₂. CO is a fuel; it burns in the air. CO₂ does not burn in the air; it is used to put out fires and is found in extinguishers. CO and CO₂ are two distinct compounds.

There are many ways for the elements to combine with each other. As a result, the first twenty elements on the periodic table alone can produce a large number of compounds.