Difference between Atoms and Molecules
The differences between atoms and molecules can be understood in the table discussed below,
|
Characteristics |
Atoms |
Molecules |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Atoms are the smallest unit of an element that can exist either alone or in combination with other atoms | Molecules are formed when two or more atoms of different or the same elements chemically combine to form a stable particle. |
| Composition | Atoms are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons | Molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together by covalent, ionic, or metallic bonds. |
| Size | Atoms are extremely small in size, with a diameter ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 nanometers | Molecules are comparatively larger in size than atoms, with a diameter ranging from 0.1 to 10 nanometers. |
| Shape | Spherical | Depending on the bond between the atoms it can be linear, triangular, etc. |
| Type | Atoms can be of the same element or different elements. | Molecules can only be formed by different or the same elements chemically combining. |
| Reactivity | Highly Reactive | Comparatively Less Reactive |
| Examples | Examples of atoms include Hydrogen(H), Carbon(C), Oxygen(O), etc. | Examples of molecules include Water (H2O), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Glucose (C6H12O6), etc. |
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Difference Between Atom And Molecule
Atoms and Molecules are the basic building blocks of all matter around us. There are some fundamental differences between atoms and molecules but they are essential in understanding the behavior of the world around us. Initially, atoms were thought to be indestructible, i.e. we can not further break an atom into other parts. But later it was confirmed that atoms can be further divided into fundamental particles. Molecules are groups of one or more types of atoms that combined in a fixed ratio to form a compound.
The basic difference is that an atom is a single structure whereas, a molecule is a structure made of multiple atoms of the same or different kinds. In this article, we will learn about, Atoms, Molecules, their differences, and others in detail.
Table of Content
- Atoms Definition
- Molecules Definition
- Difference between Atoms and Molecules
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