Question

Which statement about atoms and molecules is correct?


Elements always exist as separate atoms


Elements always exist as pairs of atoms called molecules


Elements and compounds can exist as molecules

Answer 1

Answer:

Elements and compounds can exist as molecules

Answer 2

The correct statement about atoms and molecules is: Elements and compounds can exist as molecules.

Explanation:

• Elements can exist both as a single atom or a pair of atoms known as molecules.
• Elements such as H, He, Ne, Ca, Fe, etc. can exist as single or separate atoms.
• On the other hand, elements such as nitrogen, oxygen, chlorine, phosphorus, sulphur, etc. exist as a pair of atoms called molecules.
• Molecules can be of both elements and compounds.
• Examples of molecules of an element are $\[{N_2},\,{O_2},\,C{l_2}\]$, etc.
• Examples of molecules of compounds are $\[{H_2}O,\,N{H_3},\,C{H_4}\]$, etc.
• Therefore, elements and compounds can exist as molecules.