Question

Which of the following property does not describe a compound?

• A. It is a pure substance.
• B. It is composed of two or more elements.
• C. Constituent atoms are mixed in any proportion by mass.
• D. It has different properties as compared to its constituents.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Constituent atoms are mixed in any proportion by mass.

A compound is a pure substance formed when atoms of two or more elements chemically combine with each other in a fixed proportion. For example, hydrogen and oxygen combine in a fixed ratio of 2:1 to form water.

The properties of compounds are distinct from the properties of elements constituting them. For example, hydrogen is combustible and oxygen is a supporter of combustion. However, water is used as a fire extinguisher.