Question

The smallest particle of a compound which can exists independently is called a ________ .

Answer 1

• Molecules are the smallest/basic particles of a compound.
• Atoms are the smallest/basic particles of elements.
• Atoms of the different elements bond to each other to form molecules of a compound.
• Example: ${\mathrm{H}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+{\mathrm{Cl}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)\to 2\mathrm{HCl}\left(\mathrm{g}\right)$
• Here two different elements Hydrogen and Chlorine react to form the molecule.
• This molecule is the basic part of this compound and not the individual atoms of Hydrogen and chlorine.
• Molecules exhibit all properties of the given compounds.
• Thus, The smallest particle of a compound which can exist independently is called a Molecule.