Question

Why do elements combine? What is meant by the term chemical formula? Give one example to explain it. [3 MARKS]

Answer 1

Each point: 1 Mark

1. Elements combine to attain stability.
2. The chemical formula of a compound means the symbolic representation of the composition of a compound. From the chemical formula of a compound, we can know the number and kinds of atoms of different elements that constitute the compound.
3. For example, from the chemical formula $C{O}_2$ of carbon dioxide, we come to know that one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms are chemically bonded together to form one molecule of the compound, carbon dioxide.