The smallest unit of a compound is called an/a __. a) Molecule b) Atom c) Element d) Ion
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is a) Molecule.
Explanation:
A compound is a substance that consists of two or more different elements chemically bonded together. The smallest unit of a compound that still retains the properties of the compound is called a molecule. Molecules are formed when atoms of different elements combine in fixed ratios, and they are held together by chemical bonds, such as covalent bonds (in covalent compounds) or ionic bonds (in ionic compounds).
For example, in a water molecule (H₂O), two hydrogen atoms are covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. The molecule of water is the smallest unit that can exist and still have the properties of water.
Here’s a breakdown of the options:
- a) Molecule: This is the correct choice because a molecule is the smallest unit of a compound, retaining the compound’s chemical properties.
- b) Atom: An atom is the basic unit of an element, not a compound. It is the smallest unit of matter but does not represent a compound unless combined with other atoms to form a molecule.
- c) Element: An element is a pure substance made of only one kind of atom. A compound, on the other hand, is made from different elements.
- d) Ion: An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost one or more electrons, giving it a charge. Ions can be part of compounds (like sodium chloride, NaCl), but an ion by itself is not the smallest unit of a compound.
Thus, the smallest unit of a compound that retains its chemical properties is a molecule, as it contains atoms bonded together in a specific arrangement.
