Which of the following best describes the fundamental composition of matter?

• A. Electrons
• B. Atoms
• C. Protons
• D. Molecules

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that matter is anything that has mass and occupies space.
2. Recognize that matter is made up of basic building blocks called atoms, which are the smallest units retaining the properties of an element.
3. Know that atoms themselves are composed of subatomic particles: protons, neutrons, and electrons, but these particles alone do not constitute matter independently.
4. Realize that molecules are combinations of two or more atoms bonded together, so molecules are made of atoms, not more fundamental than atoms.
5. Therefore, the fundamental composition of matter is best described by atoms, as they are the basic units from which all matter is constructed.