How do atom exists in nature? Explain with examples.
Answers
Answer:
Atoms exist in free states in the form of molecule. Molecules may be formed by the combination of atoms of two or more different elements. For example molecule of water. It is formed by the combination of two atoms of hydrogen and one atom of oxygen.
Atoms exist in nature in three forms - independently, molecules or ions.
Atom is smallest unit of element. They are made up of protons, neutrons and electrons. Except noble gases, atoms are chemically reactive in nature.
Therefore, they either exist in form of combination as molecules or they exist in stable form as ions. Noble gases being unreactive and stable, exist independently.
Example as independent atom - Helium, Radon. In outer space, Hydrogen etc.
Example of atoms existing as molecule - water containing hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen or oxygen gas.
Example of atoms existing as ions - Sodium, potassium, chlorine ions.