A symbol of an element represents

Options

A. one atom of the element
B. one molecule of the element
C. all the atoms of the element
D. all the molecules of the element

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Chemical Symbols**: A chemical symbol is a notation used to represent an element. Each element has a unique symbol that is typically derived from its name.

2. **Representation of Atoms**: A chemical symbol represents one atom of the element. For example, the chemical symbol for sodium is "Na," which signifies one sodium atom.

3. **Examples of Chemical Symbols**:
- **Sodium (Na)**: The symbol "Na" represents one atom of sodium.
- **Oxygen (O)**: The symbol "O" represents one atom of oxygen, even though oxygen naturally exists as O2 (two oxygen atoms bonded together).
- **Chlorine (Cl)**: The symbol "Cl" represents one atom of chlorine, even though chlorine exists as Cl2 (two chlorine atoms bonded together).

4. **Key Point**: The chemical symbol does not change based on the form in which the element exists. It always represents a single atom of the element, regardless of whether the element is found in nature as a single atom or as a molecule consisting of multiple atoms.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, a symbol of an element represents one atom of that element.

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