Question

Which statement is true about an atom and an element?

A) An atom can be broken down into different substances and an element is formed when two or more atoms combine.
B) An atom is made of identical elements and an element retains all of the characteristics of a particular atom.
C)An atom is the smallest unit of matter and an element is a pure substance that is made of identical atoms.

Answer 1

A is not true because atoms cannot be broken down, for they are the most simple substances, and pure substances cannot be broken down.

B is incorrect because an atom is the smallest unit of matter and connot be made up of simpler elements.

C is correct! That is because the atom is the smallest unit of matter and elements are pure substances.

FINAL ANSWER: C IS THE CORRECT ANSWER. :)