Molecule

(mol'-e-kul). The smallest quantity into which the ma of any substance can be physically divided and retain its characteristic properties; or the smallest quantity that can exist in a free state. A molecule may be chemically separated into two or more atoms. The integrity and properties of a substance reside in its molecules. Ms., Crystal, bodies conceived as existing in solutions of crystalline substances. The presence of such molecules is supposed to be the. source of the rotatory power of the solutions. Ms., Organic. See Organic Molecules, Doctrine of. Ms., Physical, the molecules to groups of which rotatory activity has been ascribed.