In: Chemistry
a. What is the difference between atoms and molecules?
b. List all elements that cannot have an "expanded octet."
(a) An atom is smallest particle in an element that has the properties of the element. It is not possible to breakdown the atom further retaining the properties of the element. Atoms are not visible to the naked eye and are the basic building blocks. Molecules are formed by the combination of two or more atoms. Unlike atoms, molecules can be subdivided to individual atoms.
The atoms are bonded together in a molecule. Molecules also are not visible to the naked eye, while can be seen through highly magnifying microscopes and other scientific devices.For example the atoms of element gold cannot be broken down further and each atom has the properties of gold.
(b) In Beryllium hydride beryllim atom & in Boran trichloride , boran atom cannot expand its octet.