What is an atom?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition or explanation of what an atom is, which is a fundamental concept in chemistry and physics related to the structure of matter.
Answer
An atom is the smallest unit of matter with the chemical properties of an element, consisting of a nucleus and electrons.
An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains all the chemical properties of an element. It consists of a nucleus of protons and generally neutrons, surrounded by electrons.
Answer for screen readers
An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains all the chemical properties of an element. It consists of a nucleus of protons and generally neutrons, surrounded by electrons.
More Information
Atoms are foundational to chemistry as they are the building blocks of all matter. They maintain the properties of elements and allow for the diversity of matter found in nature.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing atoms with molecules; molecules are made up of two or more atoms bonded together.
Sources
- Atom | Definition, Structure, History, Examples, Diagram, & Facts - britannica.com
- Matter, elements, and atoms | Chemistry of life (article) - khanacademy.org
- Atom - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
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