Question

fill in the blank question
a(n) is the smallest particle of an element that retains the elements properties.
need help? review these concept resources.
read about the concept

Explanation:

An atom is the fundamental unit of an element. It is the smallest particle that can exist independently and still possess the chemical properties characteristic of that element. Molecules are made up of atoms (for example, \(O_2\) is a molecule made of two oxygen atoms), but a single - atom (like a single gold atom, \(Au\)) is the smallest for an element. Compounds are made of different types of atoms (e.g., \(H_2O\) is a compound made of hydrogen and oxygen atoms).

Answer:

atom