Molecule

/ˈmɒlɪkjuːl/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The smallest particle in a chemical element or compound that has the chemical properties of that element or compound.

Water is composed of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, making it a simple molecule.

Any very small particle, often used in a broader context beyond chemistry.

In the field of nanotechnology, scientists manipulate molecules to create new materials.

A group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound.

The glucose molecule is essential for cellular respiration in living organisms.

Derived from the Latin 'molecula', which is a diminutive of 'moles' meaning 'mass'.

molecular biology

The branch of biology that deals with the molecular basis of biological activity.

molecule of life

Refers to essential molecules such as DNA or proteins that are critical for life.

atom

The basic unit of a chemical element.

compound

A substance formed when two or more chemical elements are chemically bonded together.

To break it down to its basic components or pieces.

Let's molecule this problem and see what's really going on.

Referring to something essential or fundamental.

That idea is the molecule of our project; everything else is built around it.