Question

e compounds v solutions

1. chemical formulas can be used to describe ____ not ____.
2. the components of a compound are ______ combined.
3. the components of a solution are ____ can vary, but the composition of a(n) ____ does not vary.

Explanation:

1.

Chemical formulas are used to describe compounds (since solutions have variable composition and formulas are for fixed - composition substances like compounds) and not solutions (as solutions' components can vary in proportion).

In a compound, the components (elements) are chemically combined in a fixed ratio. This is a fundamental property of compounds - the law of definite proportions.

In a solution, the components (solute and solvent) are physically mixed, and their relative amounts can vary (e.g., different concentrations of salt in water). However, in a compound, the composition (the ratio of elements) does not vary.

Answer:

1. Chemical formulas can be used to describe $\boldsymbol{\text{compounds}}$ not $\boldsymbol{\text{solutions}}$.

2.