Question

If atoms are made of smaller parts such as electrons, why are atoms considered the basic unit of matter?

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

Atoms are considered as the basic unit of matter because atoms combine to form matter. Atoms combine to form elements and compounds which further make up the atom.

Atoms contain electron, proton and neutrons. Electrons are negatively charged particles. They do not combine to form matter. A stable atom is a combination of fixed number of electrons, protons and neutrons.

Answer 2

Atoms are considered the basic unit of matter because it is atoms that make up the elements which in turn combine to form compounds that exist in all states. It is true that atoms are made up of electrons and neutrons and protons, but they are not useful on their own individual level. Like, you don't hear anyone say that "the particles that make up atoms are the basic unit of matter".