Difference between molecule and compound is one of the most commonly discussed topics in the chemistry subject. In this article, the difference between a molecule and a compound in tabular form is given to help the students understand this topic better. This comparison of molecule and compound can also help the students to know the examples of a compound and molecule and how they are different in their properties.
Before going into the differences, it is important to know the details about a compound and a molecule in detail. By knowing their respective details, it becomes easy to understand their differences. Visit the following links to learn about a molecule and compound in detail.
Difference Between Molecule and Compound
| Sl. No. | Differentiating Property | Molecule | Compound |
| 1 | Definition | A molecule is a group of two or more atoms held together by chemical bonds. | A compound is a substance which is formed by two or more different types of elements which are united chemically in a fixed proportion. |
| 2 | Relatedness | All molecules are not compounds. | All compounds are molecules. |
| 3 | Example | An example of a molecule is ozone. | An example of a compound is table salt (sodium chloride). |
| 4 | Structure | Molecules are simply a group of atoms which are bonded by a strong force. | All compounds are actual matter in their complete shape. |
| 5 | Visibility | A molecule cannot be seen with the naked eye as they are at the atomic level. | A compound can be easily seen with the naked eye. |
These are the main differences between molecules and compounds. These differences can help the students to learn about molecules and compounds in a better way and answer questions perfectly in the exam. To know more details about the molecules and compounds, check the articles given below.
Related Articles:
| Laws of Chemical Combination for Elements and Compounds | Empirical and Molecular Formula |
| Difference between Organic and Inorganic Compounds | Chemical Compound Formulas |
For more such chemistry articles, keep visiting BYJU’S.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What is the difference between molecule and compound based on their visibility?
Molecules are invisible to the naked eye, whereas compounds are visible to the naked eye.
Give examples of molecules.
Molecules include ozone, oxygen molecule, and nitrogen.
Give examples of compounds.
Compounds include things like table salt, ammonia, and methane.
What are types of compounds?
Compounds are divided into two categories: salts and molecular compounds. Molecular compounds – Atoms in these compounds bind to one another via covalent bonding. NH3 and CH4 are two examples. Salts are made up of atoms that are held together by ionic bonding. NaCl is an example.
Whatare the types of moecules?
Types of Molecule are as follows-
A monoatomic molecule is one that contains only one atom of an element. For example, Na, He, etc.
A diatomic molecule is one that contains two atoms in the molecule of an element. For example, O2 and N2.
A polyatomic molecule is one that contains more than two atoms in the molecule of an element. For example, P4, S8, etc.
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