Question

1. what is the smallest unit of matter that still maintains the properties of an element?

a. molecule
b. cell
c. atom
d. proton

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option a: A molecule is a group of atoms, not the smallest unit of an element.
• Option b: A cell is the basic unit of life, not related to the unit of an element.
• Option c: An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element.
• Option d: A proton is a subatomic particle, not the smallest unit of an element.

Answer:

c. Atom