Sulfuric acid is classified as a compound. Specifically, it is a chemical compound composed of two elements: sulfur and oxygen, combined with hydrogen. The chemical formula for sulfuric acid is H2SO4, which indicates that each molecule contains two hydrogen atoms, one sulfur atom, and four oxygen atoms.
To further explain, a compound is formed when two or more elements chemically bond together. This is different from an element, which cannot be broken down into simpler substances through chemical reactions. While homogeneous mixtures consist of a uniform distribution of components that can be separated by physical means, sulfuric acid cannot be separated into its elemental components without undergoing a chemical reaction. Hence, it does not fit the definition of a homogeneous or heterogeneous mixture either.
In summary, since sulfuric acid has a definite composition and can be represented by a specific chemical formula, it is categorized as a compound rather than an element or a type of mixture.