Difference Between Elements and Atoms : When you are learning chemistry, you often come across words like "elements" and "atoms." As you go deeper into the subject, things may get tricky. Understanding the difference between elements and atoms is crucial from the NEET syllabus perspective and it will help you to handle the trickiest questions from this area in the exam.
Difference Between Elements and Atoms | ||
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Parameter | Elements | Atoms |
Definition | Substances are made up of identical atoms. | The basic building blocks of matter. |
Composition | Consists of only one type of atom. | Composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. |
Size | Macroscopic, visible to the naked eye. | Microscopic, not visible individually. |
Structure | Represented by chemical symbols (e.g., O for oxygen). | Composed of a nucleus (protons and neutrons) surrounded by electrons. |
Smallest Unit | At the macroscopic level, elements. | At the microscopic level, individual atoms. |
Chemical Properties | Define the unique characteristics of substances. | Determine the behavior and reactivity of elements. |
Examples | Oxygen (O), Gold (Au), Hydrogen (H). | Hydrogen atom (H), Carbon atom (C), Oxygen atom (O). |
Combination | Combine to form compounds through chemical reactions. | Combine to form molecules or compounds. |
Atomic Number | Each element has a unique atomic number. | Different atoms have different atomic numbers. |
Mass Number | Varies for different isotopes of an element. | The sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. |
Charge | Elements are neutral. | Atoms can be neutral, positively, or negatively charged. |
Existence | Exists in various states (solid, liquid, gas) and isotopes. | Individual atoms are always in motion and exist in various energy states. |
Example : Oxygen (O), Gold (Au), Hydrogen (H), Carbon (C), Iron (Fe)
Example : Take the hydrogen atom (H) as an example. It consists of a nucleus with one proton and usually one electron orbiting the nucleus. The simplest and lightest atom, hydrogen is a fundamental element in the universe and a key component of various complex molecules.
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