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 ($CH_4$) has 1 + 4 = 5 atoms, butane ($C_4H_{10}$) 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. Eliminate this option.
3. Analyze the third option: Both methane and butane are compounds made of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) (the same two elements). Methane has 1 C and 4 H (5 atoms total), butane has 4 C and 10 H (14 atoms total) – different numbers of atoms. This matches.
4. Analyze the fourth option: Methane and butane are compounds themselves, not made of the same two compounds. Also, they are made of the same elements (C and H), not different types. Eliminate this option.

Answer:

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