Question

question 1-44
what is the smallest particle of an element that still exhibits all the properties of that element?
an electron
an atom
a molecule
a proton

Explanation:

To determine the smallest particle of an element that still exhibits all its properties, we analyze each option:

• An electron is a subatomic particle, but it doesn't represent the element's properties alone.
• A proton is also a subatomic particle and not the smallest unit of an element with its properties.
• A molecule is a group of atoms (can be of the same or different elements) and not the smallest unit of a single element.
• An atom is defined as the smallest particle of an element that retains all the chemical properties of that element.

Answer:

C. an atom