Molecular Structure

Definition

Molecular structure refers to how atoms in a molecule are arranged and held together by chemical bonds. It determines many properties such as polarity, reactivity, phase of matter, color, magnetism and biological activity.

Related terms

Covalent Bond: A type of chemical bond where two atoms share a pair of electrons.

Ionic Bond: A type of chemical bond where one atom gives up one or more electrons to another atom, creating ions that are attracted to each other.

Polarity: The property of having poles or being polar, which results from the uneven distribution of electrons in a molecule.