2007-01-24 12:37:46 · 4 answers · asked by darylnisha i 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Elements combine with each other to make new compounds. There are a really large number of potential combinations if you do the math -- especally since Carbon can combine with almost an unlimited number of other elements, and itself, in rings and chains to make really long molcules.
2007-01-24 12:43:47 · answer #1 · answered by Randy G 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Easily - because the exact same elements can be used to produce different compounds - for example CO2 is carbon dioxide and CO is carbon monoxide - two very different compounds from the same elements.
If each element could be used only in a different combination with another to form only one compound, the number of compounds would be mathematically limited. Nature isn't held to this restriction - and that results in millions of possible combinations.
2007-01-24 20:52:21 · answer #2 · answered by LeAnne 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because there are many variations on each of those elements as well. They are called isotopes. examples are Carbon-12, Carbon-13, Carbon-14...
2007-01-24 20:48:14 · answer #3 · answered by Beach_Bum 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Infinite combinations are possible.
How come there are so many different types of people when there were only 2 to start?
2007-01-24 20:42:50 · answer #4 · answered by reb1240 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋