What is Molecule? Definition, Meaning & Example
A group of two or more atoms bonded together chemically, representing the smallest unit of a compound or pure element.
TL;DR: A group of two or more atoms bonded together chemically, representing the smallest unit of a compound or pure element.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
Molecule: A group of two or more atoms bonded together chemically, representing the smallest unit of a compound or pure element.
Explanation
Molecules form when atoms share or exchange electrons to form chemical bonds. A molecule can consist of atoms of the same element, like O2 (oxygen gas), or different elements, like H2O (water). The properties of a molecule depend on which atoms it contains and how they are arranged. Chemical reactions involve breaking bonds in reactant molecules and forming new bonds to create product molecules. Understanding molecular structure helps explain why substances have particular properties and how they behave in reactions.
Example
A water molecule consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom (H2O). The specific arrangement and bonding give water its unique properties like being liquid at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between atoms and molecules?
An atom is a single particle of an element, while a molecule is two or more atoms bonded together chemically.
Can a molecule have just one atom?
No, by definition a molecule must have at least two atoms bonded together. A single atom is just an atom, not a molecule.
More Chemistry Terms
🤖 Stuck on any of these? Ask Syllab's free AI Tutor to explain step by step →