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

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: It asks for the smallest unit of an element that retains the chemical properties of that element.
2. Recall definitions: A proton is a subatomic particle found in the nucleus, but alone it does not represent the element's chemical properties.
3. Consider electrons: Electrons are subatomic particles involved in chemical reactions, but an electron alone does not define an element.
4. Examine molecules: Molecules are combinations of atoms bonded together, so they are larger than atoms and may contain multiple elements.
5. Identify the atom: An atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains all the chemical properties of that element, as it contains protons, neutrons, and electrons arranged in a way that defines the element.