Question

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

Explanation:

1. Analyze the chemical formulas: Methane is \( \text{CH}_4 \) (1 C, 4 H) and butane is \( \text{C}_4\text{H}_{10} \) (4 C, 10 H).
2. Check elements: Both have C and H (same two elements).
3. Check atom counts: Methane has \( 1 + 4 = 5 \) atoms per molecule; butane has \( 4 + 10 = 14 \) atoms per molecule (different numbers of atoms).
4. Evaluate options:

• Option 1: "They are compounds made of the same two elements, but each contain different numbers of atoms." matches the analysis (same elements, different atom counts per molecule).
• Option 2: "They are two different types of molecules that each contain the same number of atoms." is wrong (5 vs. 14 atoms).
• Option 3: "They are two different types of atoms that are each made up of a different number of elements." is wrong (they are compounds, not atoms, and both have 2 elements).
• Option 4: "They are matter made of the same two compounds, but each contain different types of elements." is wrong (they are compounds, not made of compounds, and same elements).

Answer:

The correct statement is: "They are compounds made of the same two elements, but each contain different numbers of atoms." (Assuming this is the first option boxed as per the layout, but based on content, the one describing same elements, different atom counts.)