A mixture is different from a compound because

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the key difference between a mixture and a compound.

Step 2: Explain the concept

• Compound: Two or more elements chemically combined in a fixed ratio. It has a definite chemical formula (e.g., H₂O, NaCl). Its properties are different from those of its constituent elements. It can only be separated by chemical methods.
• Mixture: Two or more substances physically combined in any proportion. There is no chemical bonding. Each component keeps its own properties. It can be separated by physical methods (filtration, distillation, evaporation, etc.). A mixture has no fixed formula.

Step 3: Evaluate each option

• A. Incorrect. This is reversed. It is a compound whose properties differ from its constituents (e.g., sodium and chlorine are dangerous, but NaCl is safe table salt). A mixture keeps the properties of its components.
• B. Incorrect. Mixtures can be homogeneous (salt solution) or heterogeneous (sand and water). Also, compounds are generally homogeneous, so the statement is false.
• C. Correct. The constituents of a compound are chemically bonded together, while those of a mixture are only physically mixed with no chemical bonds.
• D. Incorrect. This is reversed. A compound is represented by a chemical formula, while a mixture is not.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C.

Tip: Remember "Compound = Chemically combined." If a statement says a mixture has a formula or changes its constituents' properties, it has swapped the definitions, so look out for reversed statements in JAMB options.