An atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains its chemical properties. It consists of a nucleus, which contains positively charged protons and neutral neutrons, surrounded by negatively charged electrons. In normal chemical reactions, atoms combine to form molecules.
However, atoms can be split into simpler particles through various processes. One such process is nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom is split into two or more smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. This is the process used in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs.
It's important to note that nuclear fission involves splitting the atomic nucleus, not the whole atom. The resulting particles are still subatomic and not considered molecules. In this context, the term "simpler molecules" is not applicable.
On the other hand, in chemical reactions, atoms combine and rearrange to form different molecules. This process involves breaking and forming chemical bonds between atoms. These reactions occur at the atomic and molecular level, resulting in the formation of new compounds.
So while an atom can be split into smaller particles through nuclear processes, it is not accurate to say that an atom can be split into simpler molecules.