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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Molecules and Compounds?

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The main difference between molecules and compounds lies in their composition and structure:

  • Molecules: A molecule is a group of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. These atoms can be from the same element or different elements. Molecules can be composed of atoms in a single element, whereas a compound is composed of at least two elements.
  • Compounds: A compound is a substance formed by two or more different types of elements that are chemically combined in a fixed proportion. Compounds always contain more than one type of element, whereas a molecule can contain only one type of element.

In summary:

  • All compounds are molecules, but not all molecules are compounds.
  • Molecules can be composed of atoms in a single element, whereas a compound is composed of at least two elements.
  • Molecules cannot be seen with the naked eye, while compounds can be seen with the naked eye.

Examples of molecules include H2, O2, CO2, and CH4, while examples of compounds include H2O, NaCl, C6H12O6, and CH3COOH.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Molecules and Compounds?
  • Comparative Table: Molecules vs Compounds

    • Comparative Table: Molecules vs Compounds

    Here is a table comparing the differences between molecules and compounds:

    Feature Molecules Compounds
    Definition Molecules are groups of atoms bonded together by a strong force. Compounds are substances formed when two or more different elements are joined together chemically.
    Visibility Molecules are invisible to the naked eye, as they are at the atomic level. Compounds can be easily seen with the naked eye.
    Formation Molecules are formed by atoms sharing electrons (covalent bonding) or by the transfer of electrons between atoms (ionic bonding). Compounds are formed when atoms of different elements chemically bond together.
    Examples Examples of molecules include H2 (hydrogen), N2 (nitrogen), and O2 (oxygen). Examples of compounds include water (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), and sodium chloride (NaCl).

    In summary, molecules are groups of atoms bonded together by strong forces and are not visible to the naked eye. Compounds, on the other hand, are substances formed when two or more different elements chemically bond together and can be easily seen with the naked eye.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.