What is the role of atoms in chemical substances?

Atoms play a fundamental role in the formation of chemical substances by serving as the building blocks that combine to create various compounds. Each atom consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons, and when they bond together, they can form molecules representing different substances. This ability to form compounds is essential in chemistry, as it explains how different materials are created and transformed through chemical reactions.

In this context, the emphasis on combining to form compounds highlights the core principle of chemical interactions, where different types and arrangements of atoms lead to a vast array of materials with distinctive properties. Understanding this process provides insight into the complexity of matter and the principles that govern chemical reactions and interactions.