how do elements differ from compounds
Compounds. A compound is a substance formed when two or more elements are chemically joined. Water, salt, and sugar are examples of compounds. When the elements are joined, the atoms lose their individual properties and have different properties from the elements they are composed of. A chemical formula is used a quick way to show the composition of compounds.
Elements, Atoms, and Molecules. For a more advanced list of resources on atoms, elements and compounds. Elements are substances that cannot be separated into simpler substances. Salt is made up of the elements sodium and chloride. Water is made up of the elements hydrogen and oxygen. The smallest particles of matter are called atoms.