Using the Right Words in the Right Way: Atom, Molecule, Element, and Compound

Abstract

A recent article in this Journal suggests a novel definition of molecule, proposes to derive the concept of atom from that of molecule, and offers a revision of the term element. This commentary criticizes specific aspects of the novel proposals in that paper and argues that the terms atom, molecule, element, and compound as currently understood are philosophically adequate and pedagogically appropriate.

Improving the Understanding of Chemistry by Using the Right Words: Why Is Talking about Compounds so Messy?

“…In all cases, these species are characterized by a specific class of nuclei: chlorine nuclei and, thus, chlorine element. In this version, we have included the valuable comment of Prof. Carmen Giunta about helium. , Adapted from ref . Copyright 2023 American Chemical Society.…”

Reply to “Using the Right Words in the Right Way: Atom, Molecule, Element, and Compound”

“…Regarding the comment, “ It may be useful, pedagogically, to treat the IUPAC definition of the atom as a limiting or ideal case while extending the concept of atom to the corresponding nucleus and its electronic environment within a molecule as well ”, we could not agree more with Prof. Giunta. This reflection seems very interesting, accurate, and necessary.…”

“…Concerning the comment: “ The authors agree with Jensen that atoms thus defined cease to be atoms once they form bonds because the electrons are shared or transferred. ”, and “ Whereas Jensen concludes that ‘neutral atoms cannot serve as structural units within polyatomic molecules and ions,’ the authors of ref adjust their concept of molecule and atom in order to retain the conclusion ‘ that atoms are building blocks in molecules .’” . This is untruth.…”

“…When we were writing the manuscript “Improving the Understanding of Chemistry by Using the Right Words: A Clear-Cut Strategy to Avoid Misconceptions When Talking about Elements, Atoms, and Molecules”, we considered that the success of this article would be reflected in an enriched debate and the generation of an interesting discussion concerning the various inherent definitions. Because we firmly believe that a crucial ingredient for scientific growth lies in the dialogue between chemists and the questions raised by different contributors, we are honored to respond to the letter from Prof. Carmen J. Giunta concerning our recent publication . In the following, we proceed to define our arguments point by point, in the same order that they were presented by Prof. Giunta.…”

“…Because we firmly believe that a crucial ingredient for scientific growth lies in the dialogue between chemists and the questions raised by different contributors, we are honored to respond to the letter from Prof. Carmen J. Giunta concerning our recent publication. 2 In the following, we proceed to define our arguments point by point, in the same order that they were presented by Prof. Giunta.…”