Molecules of Elements and Compounds

Atoms of some elements, like helium and neon, exist as single atoms with independent existence, referred to as the monoatomic molecular state. Certain elements form molecules by combining two or more of their own atoms, referred to as the polyatomic molecular state. Examples of elements in the diatomic molecular state include oxygen (O₂​) and nitrogen (N₂​).

Molecules of compounds are formed when atoms of different elements chemically combine with one another. Compounds result from chemical attractions between different elements, creating molecules with distinct properties.