An Overview of Atom and Molecule
A molecule is a brand-new thing that is distinct from the atoms that made it up; these atoms, therefore, in some ways, shed their individuality in the creation of the molecule. In contrast, interpreting and forecasting the behaviour of molecules in the perspective of atom-specific characteristics has shown to be quite helpful in practice.
One illustration of this is the idea of electronegativity, which quantifies an atom's propensity to draw electrons to itself within a molecule. Another instance would be to give the different atoms different charges and then use those charges to anticipate things like the reactive groups in the molecule. So, despite its conceptual underpinnings, the idea of atoms in molecules has a lot of chemical backing. This article will discuss the difference between an atom and a molecule.
What is Atom?
The smallest particle of a compound or element that is invisible to the bare eyes is referred to as an atom. Additionally, it might or might not be autonomous. In addition, it has an electron and a nucleus. Additionally, it is spherical in shape.
The atom, as per Rutherford theory, is made up of a positively charged nucleus that is surrounded by a system of negatively charged electrons that are held together by the nucleus's attraction forces; the sum of these electrons charges is equivalent to the positive charge of the nucleus. Furthermore, it is considered that the nucleus houses the majority of an atom's mass and has linear dimensions that are extremely small in comparison to those of the entire atom. It has been determined that an atom has around half its atomic weight in electrons.
Examples include H, He, N, etc.
Atomic Characteristics
Electrons, protons, and neutrons make up an atom.
A positive charge usually occupies the core of the atom.
There is no electrical charge in an atom.
To demonstrate the charge of an atom, several concepts were offered.
The quantity of both protons and neutrons in an atom of a similar element is identical.
The radius of an atom serves as a measure of its size.
What is Molecule?
The term "molecule" describes a group of two or more atoms joined by a bond. Additionally, they show the tiniest part of a substance. Additionally, they are free to exist. They also consist of two or more atoms, whether identical or not, chemically bound together.
Additionally, a chemical bond can form as a result of interactions between the electrons in a molecule. As an example, consider CO2, NO2, HCl, etc.
Properties of Molecules
Molecules come in solid, liquid, and gaseous forms.
Compared to ionic substances, molecules possess a lower melting point or higher boiling point.
Molecules might either be highly or poorly soluble.
Electricity and heat are poorly conducted by molecules.
Several solids join together to form a web crystal resembling a diamond within molecules.
What is the Main Difference between Atom and Molecule?
The difference between an atom and a molecule is explained below:
Can an Atom be Created?
Dalton added the preceding concepts to the prevalent question of can atoms are created: that all atoms of a particular element were similar, that atoms of the same element will vary in mass and characteristics from atomic nuclei of some other element that atoms cannot be created or destructed, and that matter is generated by atoms merging in ordinary entire numbers. But later some scientists like Thomason proved that atoms can be divided.
Interesting Facts
Sir. J.J. Thomson theory states that an atom is made up of a sphere of uniformly positive electricity within which the electrons orbit in a circle.
The main differentiation among the Thomson and Rutherford atom-models is the fact that forces behaving on the electrons in the Thomson atom-model permit configurations and movement of the electrons when the framework is in a stable state; these configurations, nevertheless, appear to be absent in the Rutherford atom-model.
Key Features to Remember
Atoms are the basic building block of all matter and can't be created. It is made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
A molecule is made up of two or more atoms, whether they are the same type or not. When broken down, every molecule exhibits the specific characteristics of the chemical.
FAQs on Difference Between Atom and Molecule for JEE Main 2024
1. What kind of bond formation happens in atoms and molecules?
Atoms form a nuclear bond and covalent bond formation takes place in molecules.
2. Are atoms and molecules visible to the eyes?
Atoms are not visible to the naked eye and also using microscopic techniques, whereas molecules are visible using microscopic tools but not through the naked eyes.
3. Explain any two differences between atom and molecule.
Atoms may or may not exist freely, whereas molecules exist in a free state. Atoms undergo rapid reaction, while molecules are less reactive compared to atoms.
