How to Differentiate Between Atoms & Molecules
- 1). Use the chemistry book to find the chemical formula for the matter in question.
- 2). Count the number of particles in the matter, using the chemical formula. An example of one particle is Ag (silver). An example of multiple particles is H2O (three particles).
- 3). Use the number of particles you counted to determine if you have an atom or a molecule. If you counted one particle, then you have a single atom (also known as an element). If there are multiple particles, such as the three particles in H2O (two hydrogen particles and one oxygen particle), you have a molecule (also known as a compound).
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