Which of the following is the smallest part of an element that still retains the chemical properties of that element?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: It asks for the smallest part of an element that still retains the chemical properties of that element.
2. Recall definitions: A proton is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom, but it alone does not retain chemical properties.
3. Recall definitions: An electron is a subatomic particle orbiting the nucleus, but it also does not retain the chemical properties of the element by itself.
4. Recall definitions: A molecule is a group of atoms bonded together and can be made of one or more elements, so it is not the smallest part of a single element.
5. Identify the correct answer: The atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains all the chemical properties of that element.