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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: Yes, two different compounds can be made from the same two elements.

Explanation:

This is because the same elements can combine in different ratios to make multiple compounds. For example, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide; both contain carbon and oxygen. But what makes them different is the ratio, Carbon Dioxide has 1 carbon atom and 2 oxygen atoms. While Carbon Monoxide has 1 carbon atom and 1 oxygen atom.

There is a limited number of elements but many compounds because of what was described above. (Same elements combined in different ratios to make multiple compounds.)

, Hope this helps :)

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User David Safrastyan
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4 votes

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.


User Udara Abeythilake
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