Multiple Choice
Which element has exactly 3 protons in its nucleus?
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2. Atoms & Elements
The Atom
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Which of the following is the basic unit of a chemical element?
A
Atom
B
Molecule
C
Ion
D
Proton
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the definition of a chemical element: A chemical element is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom, characterized by its atomic number (number of protons).
Recall that the basic unit of a chemical element is the smallest particle that retains the chemical properties of that element.
Consider the options: A molecule is a group of atoms bonded together, an ion is an atom or molecule with a net electric charge, and a proton is a subatomic particle within an atom.
Since an atom contains protons, neutrons, and electrons and represents the smallest unit of an element that maintains its identity, it is the basic unit of a chemical element.
Therefore, the correct choice is 'Atom' because it is the fundamental building block of a chemical element.
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