Difference between Atoms and Molecules

ATOMS

MOLECULES

Atoms are the smallest particles that can exist in nature

Molecules are composed of atoms

Atoms cannot exist stably independently (except noble gases like Helium, Neon etc.)

Molecules are the smallest particles that can exist stably independently

Atoms are highly reactive and form chemical bonds to attain stability (except noble gases) 

Since molecules are stable , they are not highly reactive.

Atoms consist of subatomic particles ; protons, neutrons, electrons

Molecules are composed of atoms of the same type of different types

Atoms cannot be split into its constituent subatomic particles by chemical methods of separation

Molecules can be split into its constituent atoms by chemical methods of separation

Example - Oxygen atom (O)

                 Helium atom (He)

Example -  Oxygen molecule (O ₂ )

                   Water molecule (H ₂ O)