Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following is considered the smallest unit of matter?
A
Atom
B
Compound
C
Molecule
D
Cell
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the concept of matter. Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. It is composed of atoms, molecules, and compounds.
Identify the smallest unit of matter. Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter and are the smallest unit that retains the properties of an element.
Differentiate between atoms, molecules, and compounds. A molecule is formed when two or more atoms bond together, and a compound is a substance made up of two or more different types of atoms bonded together.
Consider the structure of a cell. Cells are the basic unit of life, not matter, and are composed of many molecules and compounds.
Conclude that the atom is the smallest unit of matter, as it is the fundamental component from which molecules and compounds are formed.