Difference between atoms and elements
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Atoms: Basic Building Blocks of Matter
Atoms are the smallest units of matter that retain the properties of a chemical element. Each atom is made up of three types of subatomic particles: protons (positively charged), neutrons (no charge), and electrons (negatively charged). The protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus at the center of the atom, while the electrons orbit around the nucleus. The number of protons in an atom determines its identity and is called the atomic number. For example, a hydrogen atom has one proton, while a helium atom has two protons 12.
Elements: Pure Substances Defined by Atoms
An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. All atoms of a given element have the same number of protons in their nuclei. For example, all hydrogen atoms have one proton, and all oxygen atoms have eight protons. The element is defined by this atomic number, and each element is listed in the periodic table according to its atomic number 12.
Key Differences Between Atoms and Elements
- Atoms are individual particles: They are the smallest units that make up matter and can exist alone or combine with other atoms 12.
- Elements are types of substances: An element is a collection of atoms that all have the same number of protons. Elements are the simplest substances in chemistry and are represented by symbols like H for hydrogen or O for oxygen 125.
- Atoms make up elements: All atoms of a particular element are essentially the same in terms of their number of protons, but they can have different numbers of neutrons (these are called isotopes) .
Historical and Conceptual Context
The distinction between atoms and elements became clearer with the development of atomic theory in the 19th century. John Dalton’s atomic theory helped chemists understand that elements are made up of atoms, and that the properties of elements depend on the types of atoms they contain. Dalton’s work allowed scientists to measure and compare the properties of atoms and elements, making the relationship between them more concrete and measurable 37.
Atoms, Elements, and Chemical Compounds
While atoms are the building blocks, elements are the pure substances made from only one kind of atom. When atoms of different elements combine, they form compounds. The terms atom, element, molecule, and compound are all related but have distinct meanings in chemistry, and using them correctly helps avoid confusion 56.
Conclusion
In summary, atoms are the smallest units of matter, while elements are pure substances made up of only one kind of atom. The number of protons in an atom defines which element it belongs to. Understanding the difference between atoms and elements is fundamental to studying chemistry and the nature of matter 1257.
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