What is the smallest unit of matter?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the Biology MYA Test with engaging resources. Dive into flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations, ensuring you're well-prepared for success.

Multiple Choice

What is the smallest unit of matter?

Explanation:
The basic building block that defines a pure element and has its properties is the atom. An atom is the smallest unit that can retain the characteristics of that element, with a nucleus and electrons surrounding it. Molecules are larger groups formed when atoms bond together—like a water molecule, which contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. So while molecules exist, they are composed of atoms and are not the smallest units themselves. Cohesion is a force describing how molecules attract each other, not a unit of matter. Subatomic particles exist, but in this context the smallest unit that preserves an element’s identity is the atom.

The basic building block that defines a pure element and has its properties is the atom. An atom is the smallest unit that can retain the characteristics of that element, with a nucleus and electrons surrounding it. Molecules are larger groups formed when atoms bond together—like a water molecule, which contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. So while molecules exist, they are composed of atoms and are not the smallest units themselves. Cohesion is a force describing how molecules attract each other, not a unit of matter. Subatomic particles exist, but in this context the smallest unit that preserves an element’s identity is the atom.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy