What are some examples of compounds?

1 Answer
Apr 20, 2015

Definition of a Compound
In simple terms compounds can be described as substances that have two or more Atoms bonded together.

A compound is a pure substance that contains atoms of two or more chemical elements in definite proportions that cannot be separated by physical means and are held together by chemical bonds.

Examples of Compounds - Water
Water is a compound because it is made up of more than one element - Hydrogen and Oxygen.

For example, the chemical formula for water is H2O which indicates that 2 atoms of Hydrogen combines with 1 atom of oxygen and creates the compound water.

Examples of Compounds - Hydrogen Peroxide
The chemical formula for the compound water is H2O indicating that 2 atoms of Hydrogen combines with 1 atom of oxygen.

But if another oxygen atom is added a new compound called Hydrogen Peroxide will be created - H2O2 which indicates that 2 atoms of Hydrogen combines with 2 atoms of oxygen and creates the compound Hydrogen Peroxide.

Examples of Compounds - Salt
Salt is a compound because it is made up of more than one element.

The chemical formula for sodium chloride (Salt) is NaCl indicating that 1 atom of sodium combines with 1 atom of chlorine.