Molecules and Compounds Flashcards
When is an atom reactive?
When it does not have a full or stable amount of electrons in its outer circle
When is an atom chemically unreactive?
When the number of electrons in the outermost circle is either the most number allowed, or a whole fraction of this number
What do atoms produce when they react?
Molecules and compounds
What is a molecule?
When two or more reactive atoms donate and receive, or share electrons in their outermost circle - joining together
What is an example of a molecule with atoms of the same element?
Oxygen (O2)
What is a compound?
The substance when different elements join together as a molecule
What two groups are molecules divided into?
Inorganic and organic
What is the main difference between organic and inorganic compounds?
Organic compounds contain carbon, inorganic compounds do not
Examples of inorganic compounds
Water, sodium chloride and ammonia
What is sodium chloride made of?
One sodium atom and one chlorine atom (SALT)
What is ammonia made up of?
One nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms (NH3)
What is ammonia used for in the human body?
Used by the liver to produce urea, which is essential for the excretion of waste
What are organic compounds?
More complicated groups of several elements. Always contain carbon and vital for life.
Examples of organic compounds?
Carbohydrates and Lipids
How do atoms join together?
Covalent and ionic bonds
