Which is the smallest part of an element that retains all the properties of the element?

• A. Atom
• B. Molecule
• C. Proton
• D. Electron

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: It asks for the smallest part of an element that retains all the properties of that element.
2. Recall the structure of matter: Elements are made up of atoms, which are the basic units of an element.
3. Consider the options: A molecule is made of two or more atoms bonded together, so it is larger than an atom and may represent compounds or elements depending on the context.
4. A proton and an electron are subatomic particles found within an atom, but individually they do not retain the chemical properties of the element.
5. Therefore, the atom is the smallest unit that retains all the chemical properties of an element.