Question

1. which statement correctly compares the number of atoms in the formula for magnesium hydroxide (mg(oh)₂) and the formula for carbon dioxide (2co₂)? both formulas contain the same total number of atoms, but 2co₂ has more elements. 2co₂ has more atoms, but magnesium hydroxide has more elements. 2co₂ has fewer atoms, but the same number of elements as magnesium hydroxide. magnesium hydroxide has more atoms and more elements than 2co₂.

Explanation:

Step1: Count atoms in Mg(OH)$_2$

1 Mg + 2 O + 2 H = 5 atoms. Elements: Mg, O, H (3 elements)

Step2: Count atoms in 2CO$_2$

2 × (1 C + 2 O)=6 atoms. Elements: C, O (2 elements)

Answer:

2CO$_2$ has more atoms, but magnesium hydroxide has more elements.