Colorado Esthetician Written Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered the simplest form of chemical matter?

1. Elements

2. Mixtures

3. Molecules

4. Solutions

The correct answer is: Elements

The correct answer is A. Elements. Elements are considered the simplest form of chemical matter because they cannot be broken down into simpler substances by ordinary chemical means. Elements consist of only one type of atom, which in turn forms a unique and characteristic set of properties. In contrast, mixtures are composed of two or more different substances that are physically combined, while molecules are formed when two or more atoms are chemically bonded together. Solutions are homogeneous mixtures composed of solutes dissolved in a solvent.