Which of the following is considered the smallest particle of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: It asks for the smallest particle of matter that retains the chemical properties of an 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 with a negative charge, orbiting the nucleus, but it also does not retain chemical properties by itself.
4. Recall definitions: A molecule is made up of two or more atoms bonded together and represents a compound or element, but it is not the smallest particle of an element.
5. Recall definitions: An atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains all the chemical properties of that element, making it the correct answer.