Can someone please explain Elements vs Compounds vs Atoms vs Molecules (thanks!)
Don't know if im posting this in the correct forum but it made sense
I'm having a test Monday and I have the following information... but, im a little confused.
Elements vs Compound vs Atom vs Molecule
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Definitions
Element: A substance that cannot be broken down to other substances by chemical means (example: O/oxygen)
Compound: A substance containing 2 or more elements in a fixed ratio (example: NcCl/table salt)
Atom: The smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.
Molecule: A group of 2 or more atoms held together by covalent bonds.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
While comparing an Atom to a Molecule:
Atom = O/Oxygen
Molecule = O2
- 2 or more Atoms combined (covalent bonding) will form a molecule.
- An Atom refers to only one element whereas a molecule can either be an element OR compound.
- A molecule will exist separately when an Atom CANNOT.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Here is where im confused... In terms of "matter" an Atom would be the smallest unit? So, an Atom is basically another word for an Element?
an as a compound is 2 elements (2 atoms) wouldn't a molecule be another name for a compound?
So, If I am wrong please do help explain the differences of the four
thanks in advance %)
Don't know if im posting this in the correct forum but it made sense
I'm having a test Monday and I have the following information... but, im a little confused.
Elements vs Compound vs Atom vs Molecule
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Definitions
Element: A substance that cannot be broken down to other substances by chemical means (example: O/oxygen)
Compound: A substance containing 2 or more elements in a fixed ratio (example: NcCl/table salt)
Atom: The smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.
Molecule: A group of 2 or more atoms held together by covalent bonds.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
While comparing an Atom to a Molecule:
Atom = O/Oxygen
Molecule = O2
- 2 or more Atoms combined (covalent bonding) will form a molecule.
- An Atom refers to only one element whereas a molecule can either be an element OR compound.
- A molecule will exist separately when an Atom CANNOT.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
Here is where im confused... In terms of "matter" an Atom would be the smallest unit? So, an Atom is basically another word for an Element?
an as a compound is 2 elements (2 atoms) wouldn't a molecule be another name for a compound?
So, If I am wrong please do help explain the differences of the four
thanks in advance %)