Question

Which of the following statements is true about the relationship between atoms and molecules? Select all that apply.

A) Molecules are smaller than atoms.
B) Molecules are made of two or more atoms that are bonded together.
C) Molecules may consist of one type of atom, or multiple types of atoms.
D) Pure elements are always composed of atoms and compounds are always composed of molecules.

Answer 1

Atoms are the basic units of elements, and molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together. Therefore, statement A) is incorrect. Statements B), C), and D) correctly describe that molecules are made of atoms, can be homogeneous or heterogeneous, and that pure elements can also form molecules.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding the relationship between atoms and molecules is fundamental in chemistry. Let's examine the given statements:

• Molecules are made of two or more atoms that are bonded together.
• Molecules may consist of one type of atom, such as in the molecules found in elemental gases like hydrogen, or multiple types of atoms, as in the molecules found in water (H2O).
• Pure elements consist of a single type of atom, but they can form molecules. Compounds are always composed of molecules that are combinations of two or more different types of atoms bonded together.

The first statement A) is not true; atoms are the smallest units of elements, whereas molecules are composed of two or more atoms bonded together. Statements B), C), and D) accurately reflect the relationships between atoms and molecules.