A compound composed of two elements is called what?

Enhance your study skills for the GMAS Physical Science Test with detailed questions and hints. Utilize our flashcards and multiple choice format for effective learning, and gear up for success!

Multiple Choice

A compound composed of two elements is called what?

Explanation:
A compound composed of two elements is called a binary compound. Binary means two, so this term applies to any substance formed when exactly two different elements join together, whether the bond is ionic or covalent. Examples include sodium chloride (NaCl), carbon dioxide (CO2), and water (H2O)—each has two elements in its formula. The other terms don’t fit because a polyatomic ion refers to a charged group of atoms, not just two elements in a neutral compound; a ternary compound contains three different elements; and “ion molecule” isn’t a standard way to describe a two-element compound.

A compound composed of two elements is called a binary compound. Binary means two, so this term applies to any substance formed when exactly two different elements join together, whether the bond is ionic or covalent. Examples include sodium chloride (NaCl), carbon dioxide (CO2), and water (H2O)—each has two elements in its formula.

The other terms don’t fit because a polyatomic ion refers to a charged group of atoms, not just two elements in a neutral compound; a ternary compound contains three different elements; and “ion molecule” isn’t a standard way to describe a two-element compound.

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