CramX Logo

Q
QuestionChemistry

Is gold an element, compound, or mixture? Question options: A. Element B. Mixture C. Compound
12 months agoReport content

Answer

Full Solution Locked

Sign in to view the complete step-by-step solution and unlock all study resources.

Step 1:
: Understand the Definition of an Element

An element is a pure substance composed of only one type of atom. In this case, gold (Au) is a pure substance made up exclusively of gold atoms. It cannot be broken down into simpler substances through chemical means.

Step 2:
: Verify Gold's Atomic Composition

Gold ($$\mathrm{Au}$$) appears on the periodic table as a single element with the atomic number 79.
It consists of only gold atoms and cannot be separated into different types of atoms through chemical reactions.

Step 3:
: Eliminate Other Options

- A mixture contains multiple different substances or elements physically combined - A compound is a substance formed by chemically combining different elements - Gold does not fit either of these definitions

Step 4:
: Confirm Classification

Gold is a pure element because: - It is made of only gold atoms - It appears as a single entry on the periodic table - It cannot be chemically separated into simpler substances

Final Answer

Element The correct answer is A. Gold is a pure element consisting solely of gold atoms.