Law of Multiple Proportions

The Law of Multiple Proportions states that when two elements combine to form different compounds, the ratios of the weights of one element that combine with a fixed amount of the other element are simple whole numbers. For example, carbon and oxygen form both carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). In these compounds, the amount of oxygen that combines with a fixed amount of carbon is in a simple ratio (1:2). This pattern supports the idea that elements combine in specific, whole-number ratios, reflecting their fixed atomic relationships.