Question

multiple choice question
the smallest particle of an element that retains the properties of the element is called a(n)
o proton
o molecule
o atom
o electron

Explanation:

• A proton is a sub - atomic particle (part of an atom) and does not retain the properties of an element on its own.
• A molecule is made up of atoms (can be of the same or different elements). For an element, the molecule (e.g., \(O_2\) for oxygen) is made of atoms of that element, but the atom is more fundamental.
• An electron is a sub - atomic particle (part of an atom) and does not retain the properties of an element on its own.
• An atom is the smallest particle of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element.

Answer:

atom