Definitions
- Referring to the smallest unit of a chemical compound that retains its chemical properties. - Talking about the combination of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. - Describing the building blocks of matter that make up substances.
- Referring to a small piece or fragment of matter. - Talking about a tiny unit of a substance that cannot be divided further without losing its identity. - Describing a minute object that can be observed under a microscope or through other means.
List of Similarities
- 1Both refer to small units of matter.
- 2Both are fundamental components of substances.
- 3Both can be studied in chemistry and physics.
- 4Both can be observed and analyzed through scientific methods.
- 5Both have an impact on the properties and behavior of substances.
What is the difference?
- 1Composition: Molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together, while particles can be made up of atoms, molecules, or subatomic particles.
- 2Size: Particles are generally smaller than molecules and can be microscopic in size.
- 3Identity: Particles retain their identity even when divided into smaller parts, while molecules lose their chemical properties if broken down into individual atoms.
- 4Behavior: Molecules interact with each other through chemical reactions, while particles can interact through physical forces such as gravity or electrostatic attraction.
- 5Application: Molecules are often used in the context of chemistry and biochemistry, while particles can be applied in various fields such as physics, environmental science, and materials science.
Remember this!
Molecule and particle are both terms used to describe small units of matter. However, the difference between them lies in their composition, size, identity, behavior, and application. Molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together and retain their chemical properties, while particles can be made up of atoms, molecules, or subatomic particles and retain their identity even when divided into smaller parts.