Which statements accurately describe elements? Check all that apply. Elements are made up of two or more types of atoms. Elements are made up of only one type of atom. Each element has a unique chemical symbol. Elements can be identified by their atomic number.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answers:
- ✅ Elements are made up of only one type of atom.
- ✅ Each element has a unique chemical symbol.
- ✅ Elements can be identified by their atomic number.
Explanation:
An element is the simplest form of matter that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. The correct statements help define the fundamental characteristics of elements as described in modern chemistry.
- ❌ “Elements are made up of two or more types of atoms” is incorrect. This describes compounds, not elements. Compounds are substances formed when two or more different types of atoms are chemically bonded together, like water (H₂O), which consists of hydrogen and oxygen atoms.
- ✅ “Elements are made up of only one type of atom” is correct. An element consists of atoms that all have the same number of protons in their nucleus. For example, every atom of the element oxygen has 8 protons.
- ✅ “Each element has a unique chemical symbol” is correct. The periodic table assigns a one- or two-letter symbol to each element. These symbols are universally recognized. For example, H stands for hydrogen, O for oxygen, and Na for sodium.
- ✅ “Elements can be identified by their atomic number” is correct. The atomic number is the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus and is unique to each element. For instance, carbon has an atomic number of 6, meaning every carbon atom has 6 protons.
In summary, elements are pure substances composed of one kind of atom, and they are the building blocks of all matter. Each element is uniquely defined by its atomic number and chemical symbol, allowing scientists to identify and study them systematically.