What is the difference between an Element and a Compound?

Elements are refined substances, which consist of only a single type of atom, or the same type of atoms, and this is what makes them pure. In elements, there can be metal bonds or weak non-covalent forces. Each element has an atomic mass, atomic number, symbol, or electronic configuration.

In a compound, elements are present in a defined ratio. The properties of an element often change entirely when they are part of a mixture. There are strong covalent bonds between atoms in the compound, and elements can be subjected to chemical changes to form various compounds. Compounds are made of two or more different chemical elements.

In science, you may see the terms “compound” and “element” quite often. That is because they are words that are used often in describing science concepts. The main difference between compounds and elements is what makes them up. Elements are found on the periodic table. Each element is made up of atoms. These atoms are the same. Each compound is made up of a combination of elements.

Therefore, it seems that the elements are smaller than the compounds or simpler based on their make-up. Elements are represented on the periodic table by a symbol. The compounds are represented by a formula which may include the element’s symbol. An example of an element is Cu for copper. An example of a formula for a compound is H2O for water.