When elements react, they commonly form molecules by chemically bonding their atoms together. Besides molecules, they can also form compounds, which are substances made of two or more different elements chemically combined in fixed ratios. Additionally, elements can form mixtures, metal oxides, ionic or covalent bonds, and more complex structures depending on the type of chemical reaction. Here are key formations elements might form when they react:
- Molecules: Groups of atoms bonded chemically, either from the same element or different elements (e.g., water H2O).
- Compounds: Substances formed when two or more different elements combine chemically.
- Metal oxides: When metals react with oxygen, they produce metal oxides (e.g., magnesium oxide).
- Ionic compounds: Formed by the transfer of electrons between atoms, typically between metals and nonmetals.
- Covalent compounds: Atoms share electrons to form strong bonds, forming covalent compounds.
- Mixtures: Although not chemically bonded, elements and compounds can mix physically without chemical change.
- In reactions, bonds break and reform, potentially forming new substances through synthesis, decomposition, replacement, or combustion reactions.
Thus, elements reacting do not only form molecules but also a variety of chemical substances and sometimes physical mixtures, depending on the reaction type and involved elements.
