Molecules: Building Blocks of Matter

What is the chemical structure of a water molecule?

How are atoms held together to form a molecule?

What do the letters in a word represent in relation to molecules?

Which of the following is true about hydrogen gas?

What type of molecule is DNA?

How many electrons can an oxygen atom hold in its outer shell?

What is the role of electrons in building molecules?

What determines the size and shape of a molecule?

Which of the following components is NOT part of a water molecule?

Molecules: The Building Blocks of Matter

Molecules are groups of two or more atoms bonded together.
Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter.
Atoms contain a nucleus with orbiting electrons.
Molecules are analogous to words, composed of smaller units (atoms) which are like letters. A word (molecule) has a shape and size, determined by types and number of constituent letters (atoms).
Molecules vary greatly in size and shape based on the types and numbers of atoms bonded together. Examples include small molecules like hydrogen gas (H2) and complex molecules like DNA, which carries genetic information.
The structure of a molecule is often represented using chemical formulas.

How Molecules Are Built

Molecules are formed when atoms bond by sharing electrons in their outer electron shells.
Atoms bond because this sharing of electrons fills outer shells, making the entire structure stable.
A water molecule (H₂O) is a simple example. It is comprised of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.
Oxygen has six electrons in its outer shell and wants eight. Sharing two electrons from each of two hydrogen atoms, fills oxygen's shell.
Hydrogen atoms each have one electron in their outer shell and can hold two. Sharing a total of two electrons from both hydrogen atoms, fills the outer shells.

Explore the fascinating world of molecules, the fundamental components that make up matter. This quiz delves into the structure, formation, and examples of molecules, providing a comprehensive understanding of how atoms bond together. Test your knowledge on molecules ranging from simple substances like hydrogen gas to complex structures like DNA.