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I just saw something in a chemistry lesson what got me confused.

What is the difference between $\ce{2O}$ and $\ce{O2}$?

Thanks for the help!

JSK
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WasteD
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    The 2 O represents two separate oxygen atoms, ( not connected to one another so free to move around and react independently ), the $\ce{O2}$ is molecular oxygen. – porphyrin May 30 '17 at 15:07
  • @Porphyrin Why dont you post it as an answer? I think its the simplest solution I've heard yet. My teacher was just talking weird stuff! – WasteD May 30 '17 at 15:13
  • @BerryHolmes No actually not I saw that question but its not that what I was looking for. – WasteD May 30 '17 at 17:48

1 Answers1

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  1. $\ce{2O}$ is basically two atoms of oxygen, unbonded and separate.

  2. On the other hand, $\ce{O2}$ is oxygen molecule, which is more commonly called oxygen gas.

Equinox
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ks007
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