Which term is the basic form of matter found on the periodic table?

• A. Matter
• B. Compounds
• C. Elements
• D. Particles

Answer: (C)

Elements are the basic form of matter that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. They are the pure substances listed on the periodic table, each made of one kind of atom. Matter can also be compounds, which are combinations of two or more elements chemically bonded, or mixtures of substances. Because the periodic table catalogs these fundamental building blocks, the term that best fits is elements. For example, oxygen, carbon, and iron are elements; substances like water or sodium chloride are compounds made from these elements but are not elements themselves. The term particles is too vague, and matter covers more than just the fundamental building blocks found on the periodic table.