Case Based Question - 2 of Elements and Compounds
Passage 11 A molecule is the smallest unit of a compound that retains its chemical properties. For example, a single molecule of carbon dioxide (CO₂) contains one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. Molecules are held together by chemical bonds that determine the compound’s stability and structure. What is a molecule? How many atoms are in a single molecule of CO₂? Why are molecules important in chemistry? What type of bonds hold atoms together in a molecule? What happens to a compound’s properties if its molecular structure changes? Passage 12 Ionic compounds are formed by the transfer of electrons between atoms, resulting in a positive and a negative ion. For example, when sodium (Na) donates an electron to chlorine (Cl), it forms sodium chloride (NaCl), a stable ionic compound. Ionic compounds are often soluble in water and have high melting and boiling points. How are ionic compounds formed? What type of ions does sodium become after donating an electron? Why is sodium ch...