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Atoms, molecules, and ions
It seems odd that the words 'atom', 'molecule' and 'ion' cause many candidates to lose marks.
This is strange, really because we use these words from a very early stage in the study of Chemistry.
When you want to refer to the particles in a substance, pause for a moment to check that you are using the correct word.
Here, for example, is a multiple choice question:
Which of the following is a correct description?
A molecules of sodium chloride
B atoms of magnesium fluoride
C molecules of gaseous hydrogen
D ions of glucose
The answer, of course, is C! Sodium chloride and magnesium fluoride are
both ionic. Glucose has molecules but no ions.
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updated: 17 August 2003
