Question

Can a particle be a single atom? can a particle be a molecule?

Answer 1

A particle is defined as a small potion of matter. From its definition, then a single atom can be considered as an atom. This is because an atom is the smallest unit of matter. Also, a molecule can be considered as a particles since it is a small portion of a certain object.

Answer 2

A particle can be a single atom and can also be a molecule.

Further Explanation

Matter  

• Matter is anything that has weight and occupies space. Matter exists in three states, liquid, gases and solids.
• Matter is made up of small particles that are in continuous random movement.

Particles  

• A particle refers to a single atom or a group of atoms that are bonded together and functions as a single unit.  
• Therefore, matter is made up of particles which can either be single atoms or chemically bonded atoms to make a molecule. Hence, a molecule is also a particle of matter.

An atom  

• An atom is the smallest particle of an element that can take part in a chemical reaction.
• Atoms are made up of sub-atomic particles which include; protons, neutrons and electrons. When two or more atoms are bonded together they form a molecule.

Molecule  

• A molecule is the smallest particle of an element or a compound that has similar properties of that particular compound or element.
• Molecules could be made up of atoms that are similar such as oxygen molecule or atoms that different from different elements, such as water molecule.
• The bonding of atoms to form molecules occurs as a result of sharing or transfer of electrons between atoms.  

Keywords: Matter, particles, atoms, molecules, elements, compounds  

Learn more about:  

• Particles of matter: brainly.com/question/642915
• Structure of an atom: brainly.com/question/8437294
• Atom, molecules and compounds: brainly.com/question/11302016

Level: High school  

Subject: Chemistry  

Topic: Matter and particles of matter  

Sub-topic: Atoms and molecules