Atoms versus Molecules

Learning Objectives: After this lesson, you should be able to…

• Explain the difference between an atom and a molecule
• Identify a chemical formula given a molecular representation

Most elements don't actually exist in nature as individual atoms. Atoms readily combine (bond) to form molecules or networks. Some molecules and networks are pure elements (i.e. $0_2$, $S_8$, graphite). Other molecules contain mixtures of elements and these are known as compounds (i.e. $NaCl$, $H_2O$, $NH_3$, $C_6H_{12}O_6$). We will discuss the details of molecular and ionic compounds in later lessons. For now, we are just going to introduce the various ways that compounds can be represented.

[ciscode|rev=1|tool=elmsmedia|item=3250|entity_type=node|render=display_mode|display_mode=mediavideo__poster]