A substance with a definite ratio of components is called a ______.

A substance with a definite ratio of components is called a ______.

• A. Compound
• B. Element
• C. Mixture
• D. Solution

Answer: (A)

A substance with a definite ratio of components is formed when elements combine chemically to create a compound, so the proportions are fixed by the chemical formula. An element is a pure substance made of one type of atom, not a combination of different elements. A mixture contains two or more substances not bonded together, so their proportions can vary. A solution is a homogeneous mixture where the solute can vary in amount relative to the solvent. Because a compound has a specific, fixed ratio of elements in every sample, the correct term is compound. For example, water has a definite H2O composition.

A substance with a definite ratio of components is formed when elements combine chemically to create a compound, so the proportions are fixed by the chemical formula. An element is a pure substance made of one type of atom, not a combination of different elements. A mixture contains two or more substances not bonded together, so their proportions can vary. A solution is a homogeneous mixture where the solute can vary in amount relative to the solvent. Because a compound has a specific, fixed ratio of elements in every sample, the correct term is compound. For example, water has a definite H2O composition.