PPT Slide
Distinction Between Molecules and Compounds
Covalent compounds form well-defined groups of atoms called molecules. The formula tells the number of each kind of atom in the molecule.
Molecular Formula is the formula of a covalent compound, which gives the identity and number of each atom in the molecule.
Ionic compounds form crystals, the smallest repeating unit of which is described by the formula.
Compound Formula is the formula of an ionic compound, which gives the identity and number of each atom in the smallest repeating unit of the compound.
Notice that compound is used to describe both; however, molecule is used to describe only covalent and polar covalent entities.