What term describes a distinct chemical substance produced by the combination of two or more atoms?

What term describes a distinct chemical substance produced by the combination of two or more atoms?

• A. Atom
• B. Ion
• C. Element
• D. Molecule

Answer: (D)

When two or more atoms bond together, they form a molecule—the smallest unit of a substance that still has its characteristic properties. An atom is a single unit of an element, not a combined substance. An element is a pure substance made of one kind of atom. An ion is a charged particle arising from gaining or losing electrons, not necessarily defined by being a bonded group of atoms. Since the description specifies a distinct chemical substance produced by joining two or more atoms, the term that fits best is molecule. Examples include H2, O2, H2O, and CO2, all formed by atoms bonded together, whether the atoms are the same or different.

When two or more atoms bond together, they form a molecule—the smallest unit of a substance that still has its characteristic properties. An atom is a single unit of an element, not a combined substance. An element is a pure substance made of one kind of atom. An ion is a charged particle arising from gaining or losing electrons, not necessarily defined by being a bonded group of atoms. Since the description specifies a distinct chemical substance produced by joining two or more atoms, the term that fits best is molecule. Examples include H2, O2, H2O, and CO2, all formed by atoms bonded together, whether the atoms are the same or different.