Question

a scientist is working with methane (ch₄) and butane (c₄h₁₀). which statement best compares these chemicals?
○ they are two different types of molecules that each contain the same number of atoms.
○ they are two different types of atoms that are each made up of a different number of elements.
○ they are compounds made of the same two elements, but each contain different numbers of atoms.
○ they are matter made of the same two compounds, but each contain different types of elements.

Explanation:

1. Analyze the molecular formulas: Methane is \( \text{CH}_4 \) (1 carbon, 4 hydrogens) and butane is \( \text{C}_4\text{H}_{10} \) (4 carbons, 10 hydrogens).
2. Check each option:

• Option 1: Methane has 5 atoms (\(1 + 4\)), butane has 14 atoms (\(4+10\))—different numbers of atoms. Eliminate.
• Option 2: Both are made of carbon and hydrogen atoms (same two elements, not different types of atoms). Eliminate.
• Option 3: Methane (\( \text{CH}_4 \)) and butane (\( \text{C}_4\text{H}_{10} \)) are both hydrocarbons (compounds of C and H) with different numbers of C and H atoms. This matches.
• Option 4: Both contain C and H (same two elements). Eliminate.

Answer:

They are compounds made of the same two elements, but each contain different numbers of atoms.