What is the smallest particle of a compound?

1 Answer
Nov 3, 2016

The smallest particle of a compound which is capable of existing on its own is a Molecule- not an atom.

Explanation:

A compound can be broken down into molecules. To be specific,a molecular compound can be broken down into molecules and ionic compounds can be broken down into units,which you can consider as molecules of an ionic compound. The smallest particle of a compound capable of existing on its own is a Molecule-not a atom. An atom is the smallest particle capable of existing on its own of an ELEMENT. And yes,atoms can be further broken down into electrons,neutrons and protons.
Electrons are indivisible.
Protons and neutrons can be further divided into quarks.
Quarks are indivisible.
Since quarks and electrons are indivisible,they are called fundamental units. Note: Quarks,electons,protons,neutrons are incapable of individual existance.