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 first option: Methane ($\text{CH}_4$) has $1 + 4 = 5$ atoms, butane ($\text{C}_4\text{H}_{10}$) has $4 + 10 = 14$ atoms. So they don't have the same number of atoms. Eliminate this option.
2. Analyze the second option: Methane and butane are molecules (compounds), not atoms. Atoms are single particles like C or H, while these are made of multiple atoms. Eliminate this option.
3. Analyze the third option: Both methane ($\text{CH}_4$) and butane ($\text{C}_4\text{H}_{10}$) are compounds made of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) (the same two elements). Methane has $1$ C and $4$ H (total 5 atoms), butane has $4$ C and $10$ H (total 14 atoms), so different numbers of atoms. This option is correct.
4. Analyze the fourth option: They are compounds made of the same two elements (C and H), not the same two compounds. Eliminate this option.

Answer:

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