Based on the molecular views, classify each substance as an atomic element, a molecular element, an ionic compound, or a molecular compound.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Observe the molecular view provided in the image.
2. Identify the type of particles shown. In this case, the image shows pairs of purple spheres.
3. Determine if the particles are single atoms, molecules, or ions. Here, each pair of spheres represents a molecule.
4. Classify the substance based on the type of particles. Since the image shows pairs of identical atoms bonded together, it represents a molecular element.
5. Conclude that the substance in the image is a molecular element.

Key Concepts

Atomic Elements

Atomic elements consist of single atoms that are not bonded to other atoms. They represent the simplest form of matter and include elements like helium (He) and gold (Au). In molecular views, atomic elements appear as individual spheres, indicating their unbonded state.

Molecular Elements

Molecular elements are composed of two or more atoms of the same element bonded together. Common examples include diatomic molecules like O2 (oxygen) and N2 (nitrogen). In molecular views, they are represented as clusters of identical spheres, showing the bonds between the atoms.

Molecular Compounds

Molecular compounds consist of two or more different elements bonded together, forming distinct molecules. They are characterized by covalent bonds, where atoms share electrons. In the provided image, the clusters of purple spheres likely represent molecular compounds, indicating the presence of multiple types of atoms bonded together.