Q14 E - Chemistry (OpenStax)

Question

How does an atom differ from a molecule? In what ways are they similar?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

An atom differ from a molecule because the molecules are made up of two or more elements bonded covalently.

Explaining the differences between an atom and a molecule

Atom

• An atom is defined as the smallest particle within the element which cannot be divided or broken to form any other substances by any chemical reaction.
• It is the smallest entity within the element.
• It has three types of subatomic particles called protons, neutrons, and electrons.

Molecule

• A molecule is defined as the smallest particle with a compound that can be divided to form atoms, compounds, or any other substances by any chemical reaction.
• It is the smallest entity within the compound.
• The atoms are linked to produce a molecule.

Explaining the similarities between an atom and a molecule

• The atoms are linked to form molecules while molecules connect to form larger molecules.
• They are the smallest constituent particles.
• All atoms or molecules are connected by chemical bonds.

 

Ex., O, Mg and H are the atoms of Oxygen, Magnesium, and Hydrogen elements respectively and CsF and NaOH are the molecules of cesium fluoride and sodium hydroxide respectively.