Difference Between Elements and Atoms

Before getting into the major differences, let’s have a look at what these terms mean. So, an element is basically a pure or raw chemical substance that consists of one or a certain type of atom. An element is categorized based on its atomic number. They have been classified and grouped as metal, metalloids and non-metals in the periodic table.

Talking about atoms, it can be considered as the smallest amount of an element. These are the simplest units of all matter. Meanwhile, an atom has its own unique name, mass and size.

Here, will learn some major differences between the two. You can find the differences between elements and atoms below.

Elements

• An element is the simplest form of a substance. Generally, it cannot be simplified or broken down further into smaller particles.
• A particular element is composed of only one type of atom.
• Elements can combine with each other to form molecules via chemical reaction.
• Elements are bigger and heavier and mass.
• There are a total of 118 elements.
• The term element is used often when talking about the periodic table, and chemistry in general.

Atoms

• An atom is the part of an element.
• Atoms are further composed of subatomic particles called electrons, protons and neutrons.
• Atoms can also combine to form molecules but if all bound atoms are of similar type elements are formed.
• Atoms are very tiny particles, and they cannot be seen through a microscope.
• There are 92 different kinds of atoms in nature.
• Atom is used more in physics while in chemistry it is often mentioned when talking about atomic number or mass.