Chapter: Atoms and Molecules
Introduction: Atoms and molecules form the basic building blocks of matter. This chapter helps
us understand how substances are made up of atoms and how they combine to form molecules.
Important Terms and Definitions:
1. Atom:
o The smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.
o Example: A single hydrogen atom (H) or oxygen atom (O).
2. Molecule:
o A group of two or more atoms bonded together.
o Example: A water molecule (H₂O) consists of two hydrogen atoms and one
oxygen atom.
3. Element:
o A pure substance made up of only one type of atom.
o Example: Oxygen (O), Hydrogen (H), Carbon (C).
4. Compound:
o A substance formed when two or more elements chemically combine in a fixed
ratio.
o Example: Water (H₂O) is a compound made of hydrogen and oxygen.
5. Molecular Formula:
o The representation of a molecule using symbols and numbers to show the
elements and the number of atoms of each element.
o Example: H₂O (water), CO₂ (carbon dioxide).
6. Atomic Mass:
o The mass of a single atom, usually expressed in atomic mass units (amu).
o Example: Atomic mass of Carbon (C) is 12 amu.
7. Mole:
o A unit used to count particles like atoms or molecules. 1 mole = 6.022 × 10²³
particles (Avogadro's number).
o Example: 1 mole of water contains 6.022 × 10²³ water molecules.
Key Concepts:
1. Law of Conservation of Mass:
o Mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.