What is the smallest particle that retains the characteristics of an element?

What is the smallest particle that retains the characteristics of an element?

• A. Molecule
• B. Atom
• C. Ionic bond
• D. Compound

Answer: (B)

The smallest particle that retains the characteristics of an element is the atom. Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter and are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Each element on the periodic table is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus, which determines its chemical properties and identity. When atoms combine to form molecules or compounds, they do so through chemical bonds, which alters their individual properties. However, the atom itself remains the smallest unit that embodies the unique properties of a specific element. For example, one hydrogen atom retains the properties of hydrogen, while two bonded hydrogen atoms (a molecule) do not represent a different element but still contain hydrogen characteristics. Other options such as molecules, ionic bonds, and compounds consist of two or more atoms. Molecules are formed when two or more atoms join together, compounds are substances formed from two or more different elements that are chemically bonded, and ionic bonds refer to the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. None of these represent the simplest unit that can stand alone while maintaining the distinctive traits of an element.

The smallest particle that retains the characteristics of an element is the atom. Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of matter and are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Each element on the periodic table is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus, which determines its chemical properties and identity.

When atoms combine to form molecules or compounds, they do so through chemical bonds, which alters their individual properties. However, the atom itself remains the smallest unit that embodies the unique properties of a specific element. For example, one hydrogen atom retains the properties of hydrogen, while two bonded hydrogen atoms (a molecule) do not represent a different element but still contain hydrogen characteristics.

Other options such as molecules, ionic bonds, and compounds consist of two or more atoms. Molecules are formed when two or more atoms join together, compounds are substances formed from two or more different elements that are chemically bonded, and ionic bonds refer to the electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions. None of these represent the simplest unit that can stand alone while maintaining the distinctive traits of an element.