Molecules Meaning and Definition
Molecules
Pronunciation
/ˈmʌkjuːlɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A small group of atoms that are chemically bonded together, forming a single unit of a substance. Molecules are the building blocks of matter and are composed of atoms that share electrons in chemical bonds.
Etymology
The word “molecule” comes from the Latin term “molecula,” meaning “small mass.” The concept of molecules was first proposed by Greek philosopher Democritus in the 5th century BCE, and was later developed by modern chemists such as John Dalton and Antoine Lavoisier.
Usage Notes
Molecules can be thought of as the smallest units of a substance that still retain the properties of that substance. In everyday language, the term “molecule” is often used to describe the tiny particles that make up a substance, such as a gas or a liquid.
Additional Information
Molecules are the fundamental units of matter and are found in all substances, from the gases we breathe to the solids we touch. They are formed when atoms share electrons in chemical bonds, and the strength of these bonds determine the properties of the molecule. Molecules can be simple or complex, and can range in size from a few atoms to thousands of atoms.
Molecules are responsible for many of the physical and chemical properties of substances, including their taste, smell, and texture. They are also the basis for many biological and chemical processes, including photosynthesis, respiration, and digestion.
Synonyms
- Atoms
- Units of matter