The basic unit of matter is the atom , which consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Atoms combine to form molecules and compounds, but the atom is the smallest unit that retains the properties of an element. This concept is fundamental to the study of Chemistry . ;
The basic unit of matter is the atom, which consists of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Atoms combine to form molecules and compounds, but they are the smallest unit retaining the properties of an element. Thus, the correct answer is A. atom.
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