* Molecules are formed when two or more atoms bond together. These bonds can be:
* Covalent bonds: Atoms share electrons. Examples: water (H₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂)
* Ionic bonds: One atom donates an electron to another, creating positive and negative ions that attract each other. Examples: table salt (NaCl)
So, a molecule can be formed from:
* Two of the same atom: Like oxygen gas (O₂).
* Two different atoms: Like water (H₂O).
* Many atoms of different elements: Like glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆).
The key point is that atoms must chemically bond to form a molecule.