Chemistry of Compounds

A compound is a unique substance formed when two or more elements combine chemically.

Unlike mixtures, compounds always have fixed ratios of elements and unique properties. For instance, in water, H₂O, there are two hydrogen atoms for every oxygen atom.

If one changes the proportion of atoms in H₂O such that for every two hydrogen atoms, there are two oxygen atoms, then it will result in a new compound H₂O₂ or hydrogen peroxide, a powerful disinfectant.

Compounds are formed through chemical bonds, which are of two main types: ionic and covalent.

In ionic compounds like sodium chloride, electrons are transferred between atoms, creating charged particles called ions. These compounds are commonly solid and durable, forming crystals with high melting points.

In a covalent compound like water, the atoms share electrons to form molecules. Covalent compounds are often gases or liquids at room temperature and tend to be less dense than ionic compounds.

Compounds are all around us, whether the water you drink or the salt in your food.