Back to Atomic Structure

Lesson PreviewLesson 1 of 8 in this unit

2.1 Introduction to Atoms

Part of Atomic Structure in Chemistry: Basic. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

What are Atoms?

Atoms are the building blocks of all matter. They are the smallest units of matter that retain the properties of an element. For example, if you take a piece of gold and keep cutting it smaller and smaller, the tiniest piece that is still gold is a single atom. Atoms are so small that they cannot be seen with the naked eye—even millions of atoms would fit on the head of a pin!

Continue the full lesson in Stellar

Create a free account to unlock the remaining sections, checkpoints, course practice, and progress tracking for Chemistry: Basic.