Question

Differentiate between:

Molecule and Radical.

Answer 1

S.No.	Molecule	Radical
1	A molecule is the smallest particle of an element or compound capable of independent existence and is formed by the combination of one or more than one atoms of the same or different type.	A radical is an atom of an element or a group of an atom of different elements that behaves as a single unit with a positive or negative charge on it.
2	Molecules do not have any charge they are neutral	Radicals are charged species
3	The molecule is formed by the combination of oppositely charged radicals	Radicals can be an atom or group of atom with charge on it.
4	Molecules are stable	radicals react with oppositely charged ions in order to gain stability
5	Molecules are of two types: Molecule of element: made up of the same type of atom. For example, Hydrogen $\left({\mathrm{H}}_2\right)$, Oxygen $\left({\mathrm{O}}_2\right)$ Molecule of compound: made up of different types of atoms. For example, Ammonia $\left({\mathrm{NH}}_3\right)$	Radicals are of two types: Acidic: negatively charged radicals known as anions. For example,${\mathrm{Cl}}^{-}$(chloride ion) Basic: positively charged radicals known as cations.For example,${{\mathrm{NH}}_4}^{+}$(ammonium ion)