Question

What are the smallest units an element can be broken down into and still retain its defining properties?

molecules
protons, neutrons, and electrons
nanograms
atoms

Answer 1

it can be broken down to atoms minimum

Answer 2

Answer: Option (a) is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

A molecule is defined as the substance in which same or different atoms chemically combine together.

For example,
`Cl_(2)`,
`CH_(4)`,
`CCl_(4)` are all molecules.

When we break down a molecule into its constituent atoms then properties of its atoms remain the same.

Hence, we can conclude that molecules are the smallest units an element can be broken down into and still retain its defining properties.