Key Idea.
Section 1
The Building Blocks
All matter is constructed from tiny particles called atoms. These atoms are too small to see with the naked eye, but they determine everything about the material world.
Different substances look and behave differently because they are made of different types of atoms.
Section 2
Molecules and Extended Structures
Atoms connect in specific ways. Some atoms join in small, individual groups called molecules (like water, H₂O). These are simple structures.
Other atoms connect in massive, repeating 3D grids called extended structures (like salt or metal crystals). Whether simple or complex, these repeating groups define the substance.
Section 3
Structure Determines Property
The way atoms are arranged explains the observable properties we see.
A substance made of molecules that slide past each other might be a liquid.
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Section 1
The Building Blocks
All matter is constructed from tiny particles called atoms. These atoms are too small to see with the naked eye, but they determine everything about the material world.
Different substances look and behave differently because they are made of different types of atoms.
Section 2
Molecules and Extended Structures
Atoms connect in specific ways. Some atoms join in small, individual groups called molecules (like water, H₂O). These are simple structures.
Other atoms connect in massive, repeating 3D grids called extended structures (like salt or metal crystals). Whether simple or complex, these repeating groups define the substance.
Section 3
Structure Determines Property
The way atoms are arranged explains the observable properties we see.
A substance made of molecules that slide past each other might be a liquid.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter