Chemistry
Matter in any state is composed of small particles - molecules, atoms or ions.
Differentiate the terms above in italics.
Answer
| Atom | Molecules | Ions |
|---|---|---|
| An atom is the smallest particle of an element which can take part in a reaction. It is the basic unit of matter. | A molecule is the smallest particle of a substance which retains the characteristics of the substance. | An ion is any atom or a group of atoms which has a resultant charge due to loss or gain of electrons. |
| Examples: O, H, Cl | Examples: O2, H2, Cl2 | Examples: O2-, H1+, Cl1- |
Related Questions
Explain the meaning of the the term 'matter'.
Differentiate between the two characteristics of matter - 'mass' & 'weight'.
State which of the three states of matter i.e. solids, liquids or gases - have
(a) No definite volume
(b) A definite shape
(c) High density
(d) No free surfaces
(e) Particles which diffuse very easily.
State the main postulates of the kinetic theory with special reference to -
(a) Inter-particle space
(b) Inter-particle attraction
(c) Energy possessed by particles of matter.