What is the smallest form of matter?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking about the fundamental building blocks of matter, specifically looking for the smallest unit that retains the properties of an element.

More Information

While atoms were once considered the smallest units of matter, they are actually composed of subatomic particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons. These, in turn, are made of even smaller particles called quarks. Quarks are currently understood to be one of the fundamental building blocks of matter.

Tips

A common mistake is to assume atoms are the smallest form of matter due to their long-standing position in scientific history. Remember that advancements in particle physics have provided a deeper understanding.

Sources

• Questions and Answers - What is the smallest particle of matter ... - education.jlab.org
• Quarks and leptons are the smallest particles we know ... - Big Think - bigthink.com