Which term refers to an element that exists as single atoms in its natural state?

The term that refers to an element that exists as single atoms in its natural state is a monatomic element. Monatomic elements consist of individual atoms that do not bond with each other in their elemental form. Examples of monatomic elements include the noble gases, such as helium and neon, which are found in nature as single, unbonded atoms due to their full valence electron shells that make them stable and unreactive.

Diatomic elements, on the other hand, consist of molecules composed of two atoms, such as oxygen (O₂) or nitrogen (N₂). Polyatomic elements involve molecules that consist of three or more atoms, such as phosphorus (P₄) or sulfur (S₈). Ions refer to atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a net charge, and do not inherently describe the state of elements as they naturally occur. Understanding these distinctions is essential for grasping the behavior of elements in various chemical contexts.