molecule

[ˈmɒljəkjuːl]

molecule Definition

• 1. the smallest unit into which a substance can be divided without losing its chemical and physical properties
• 2. a group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a chemical reaction

Using molecule: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "molecule" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Water is made up of two hydrogen molecules and one oxygen molecule.

• Example

  The molecule of glucose consists of six carbon atoms, twelve hydrogen atoms, and six oxygen atoms.

• Example

  The drug works by binding to the molecules in the brain.

• Example

  The air we breathe is composed of various molecules.

molecule Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for molecule

• particle
• atom
• unit
• element

Phrases with molecule

• organic molecule

  a molecule that contains carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms

  Example

  Examples of organic molecules include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

• water molecule

  a molecule consisting of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, with the chemical formula H2O

  Example

  The water molecule is essential for life on Earth.

• carbon dioxide molecule

  a molecule consisting of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms, with the chemical formula CO2

  Example

  Carbon dioxide molecules are produced when fossil fuels are burned.

Origins of molecule

from French 'molécule', from New Latin 'molecula', diminutive of Latin 'moles' meaning 'mass'

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Summary: molecule in Brief

A 'molecule' [ˈmɒljəkjuːl] is the smallest unit of a substance that retains its chemical and physical properties. It is a group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a chemical reaction. Examples of molecules include water, glucose, and carbon dioxide.