molekuleid

Molecule is the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can exist independently and retain all the chemical and physical properties of that compound. Molecules are formed when two or more atoms bond together. These atoms can be of the same element, as in the case of oxygen gas (O2), or of different elements, as in the case of water (H2O). The forces that hold atoms together in a molecule are called chemical bonds, primarily covalent bonds where electrons are shared between atoms.

The arrangement of atoms within a molecule is known as its molecular structure, which significantly influences the molecule's properties. Molecules vary greatly in size and complexity, from simple diatomic molecules like nitrogen (N2) to enormous macromolecules like DNA. The study of molecules, their structure, properties, and reactions, is the central focus of chemistry. Understanding molecules is crucial for comprehending the nature of matter and the processes that occur in both living organisms and non-living systems.