* Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter. They are the smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element.
* Molecules are formed when two or more atoms bond together. These bonds can be strong or weak, and the resulting molecule has properties different from the individual atoms.
Think of it this way:
* Atom: Like a Lego brick, the smallest individual piece.
* Molecule: Like a structure built from multiple Lego bricks, a more complex arrangement.
Examples:
* A single oxygen atom (O) is an atom.
* Two oxygen atoms bonded together (O2) form a molecule of oxygen gas.
* A molecule of water (H2O) is formed by two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom bonded together.
