Identify whether the following statement is true or false. Atoms are the smallest particles of matter.

Evaluation of the Statement

1. Understanding Atoms: Atoms are indeed fundamental building blocks of matter. They consist of protons, neutrons, and electrons.

2. Subatomic Particles: Within an atom, we can find smaller particles, known as subatomic particles (protons, neutrons, and electrons). Moreover, protons and neutrons themselves are made up of quarks.

3. Conclusion: Since there are particles smaller than atoms, the statement that "atoms are the smallest particles of matter" is false.

In summary, while atoms are the smallest unit of an element that retains its chemical properties, they are not the smallest particles of matter when considering subatomic particles.