Molecules
1. Matter and Its Composition
All matter is made up of tiny particles called atoms. These atoms combine in definite ratios
to form molecules.
2. Laws of Chemical Combination
Law of Conservation of Mass: Mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical
reaction.
Law of Definite Proportions: A compound always contains elements in a fixed ratio by
mass.
Law of Multiple Proportions: If two elements form more than one compound, the
masses of one element combine with fixed mass of another in small whole numbers.
3. Dalton’s Atomic Theory (1803)
1. Matter is made of small indivisible particles called atoms.
2. Atoms of a given element are identical in mass and properties.
3. Atoms of different elements differ in mass and properties.
4. Compounds are formed when atoms of different elements combine in fixed ratios.
5. Atoms cannot be created or destroyed in chemical reactions.
4. What is an Atom?
Atom = Smallest particle of an element that can take part in a chemical reaction.
Represented by chemical symbols like H, O, Na, Cl.
5. What is a Molecule?
Molecule = Two or more atoms bonded together. Smallest particle of a compound
retaining its chemical properties.
Types: Diatomic (H2, O2), Triatomic (O3, H2O), Polyatomic (CO2, NH3)