Question

Rebecca is using the chemical formulas for various substances to classify them as either a compound or an element. How should Rebecca classify Gold (Au)?

A) Gold is a compound composed of a blend of substances.
B) Gold is an element composed of a blend of substances.
C) Gold is a compound composed of a pure substance.
D) Gold is an element composed of a pure substance.

Answer 1

Gold (Au) should be classified as an element, not a compound. It is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gold (Au) should be classified as an element, not a compound. An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical changes. Gold is one of the known elements, along with iron, silver, aluminum, and others. It is composed of particles called atoms, which are the fundamental building blocks of elements.