Chemistry Understanding Simple Molecular Structures in Chemistry

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Simple molecular structures are defined as molecules with fixed numbers of atoms connected by strong covalent bonds, such as water and carbon dioxide. The discussion highlights confusion regarding the term "simple," particularly in relation to complex molecules like DNA, which does not fit the criteria of simple molecular structures due to its larger and more complex configuration. Participants express uncertainty about the definition and context of "simple" in chemistry, indicating that it may not have a rigid definition. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in distinguishing between simple and complex molecular structures. Overall, understanding these distinctions is crucial for grasping fundamental concepts in chemistry.
Barclay
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Homework Statement


What are simple molecular structures?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Simple molecular structures consist of molecules containing fixed numbers of atoms joined by strong covalent bonds.

I'm getting confused with all the different structures in chemistry. How simple is simple?Simple molecular structures are : water, CO2 because they are not forming long chains as in diamond.

What about DNA? I think saw somewhere that DNA is a simple strucure (i may be wrong). Is it simple because the chians are a fixed size?
 
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Where did you get this from?
 
DrDu said:
Where did you get this from?

Barclay said:

What about DNA? I think saw somewhere that DNA is a simple strucure (i may be wrong). Is it simple because the chians are a fixed size?

Dr Du I got that bit wrong ... I don't know what I was thinking. I just got confused with something about simple molecules have a fixed number of atoms.

But how simple is simple, for a molecule to be called a simple structure?
 
I don't think this is a rigidly defined expression. That's why I was asking about the context.
 

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