* Atoms: The smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element. They are the fundamental particles that make up everything.
* Molecules: Two or more atoms bonded together. They can be made of the same element (like oxygen, O2) or different elements (like water, H2O).
Chemicals are substances that have a definite composition and distinct properties. They are made up of atoms and molecules.
Think of it this way:
* Lego bricks: Atoms and molecules are like the individual Lego bricks.
* Lego creations: Chemicals are like the structures you build with the bricks.
So, while atoms and molecules are essential for creating chemicals, they are not chemicals themselves. They are the fundamental building blocks that make up the world around us.
