What is the definition of a molecule?

Answer 1

A chemical species comprising 2 or more atoms linked by chemical bonds, and which is electrically neutral.

Molecules can comprise two or more identical atoms, or two or more different atoms. The key points in determining whether a species is a molecule, however, are (a) the atoms must be linked together by chemical bonds, and (b) overall there is no formal charge. There may well be charge inequality due to electronegativity differences between different atoms (i.e. partial positive charge on one atom, partial negative charge on the other) but overall a molecule is electrically neutral.

This is in contrast to atoms that are ionically bonded, whereby the compound exists as pairs of charged species, e.g. NaCl. Such compounds are not composed of molecules, but of ions.

Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer 2

A molecule is a group of two or more atoms that are chemically bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a chemical reaction.

Sign up to view the whole answer

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Sign up with email
Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.

Not the question you need?

Drag image here or click to upload

Or press Ctrl + V to paste
Answer Background
HIX Tutor
Solve ANY homework problem with a smart AI
  • 98% accuracy study help
  • Covers math, physics, chemistry, biology, and more
  • Step-by-step, in-depth guides
  • Readily available 24/7