Question

which is a characteristic of atoms?
○ they come in ten major types.
○ they are the smallest units of matter.
○ they can be found in nonliving things only.
○ they cannot combine together.

Explanation:

• Atoms are the fundamental building blocks of all matter, meaning they are the smallest units of matter that retain the properties of an element.
• There are over 118 known types of atoms (elements), not 10.
• Atoms make up both living and nonliving things, as all matter is composed of atoms.
• Atoms readily combine with other atoms via chemical bonds to form molecules and compounds.

Answer:

They are the smallest units of matter.