What is the basic unit of all matter?

The basic unit of all matter is the atom. Atoms are the fundamental building blocks that make up all substances, both living and non-living. Each atom consists of a nucleus made of protons and neutrons, with electrons orbiting around the nucleus. Everything around us, including elements and compounds, is composed of atoms.

Molecules are formed when two or more atoms bond together, while elements refer to pure substances made up of only one type of atom. Compounds are substances made from two or more different types of atoms that are chemically bonded together. This means that although molecules, elements, and compounds are all related to matter, they are not the most fundamental unit, which is the atom. The atom serves as the foundational element from which these more complex structures emerge.