Foundational Chemistry – Nature of Elements as Atomic Particles In basic chemistry, an element is defined as a pure substance made of extremely small, discrete, and chemically indivisible particles called atoms. An atom is the smallest unit of an element that retains its chemical identity in ordinary chemical processes.

Introduction / Context:
Understanding what constitutes an element is the first step in chemistry and materials science. The statement asserts that elements are composed of minute, chemically indivisible particles known as atoms. This directly ties to the atomic theory and the definition of chemical identity.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Chemical reactions do not alter the nuclei of atoms; they rearrange electrons and bonds.
• Atoms are the smallest units that preserve the chemical properties of an element in ordinary chemical processes.
• Subatomic particles exist, but splitting atoms requires nuclear, not chemical, processes.

Concept / Approach:

Dalton’s atomic theory and modern quantum chemistry agree that elements consist of atoms. While some elements exist as molecules (e.g., O2), each molecule is formed from atoms of the same element. Chemical indivisibility means no chemical method can break an atom into smaller entities that retain the original element’s chemical identity.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Electrolysis decomposes compounds into elements but does not split atoms. Nuclear fission/fusion alter atomic nuclei and transmute elements, which are not chemical processes. Therefore, chemical indivisibility holds for atoms.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Limiting the claim to metals is arbitrary; all elements are atomic. Saying elements are “molecules only” ignores monatomic elements (e.g., noble gases). Atoms are not chemically divisible; division requires nuclear changes.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing diatomic elemental molecules (H2, O2) with the definition of element; assuming the existence of subatomic particles refutes chemical indivisibility.

Final Answer:

True