The smallest part of a compound that still has the properties of the compound is called a molecule.

Here's why:

* Compounds are formed when two or more different elements combine chemically.

* Molecules are the smallest unit of a compound that can exist independently and retain the chemical properties of that compound.

For example, water (H₂O) is a compound made up of hydrogen and oxygen. A single water molecule (H₂O) has all the properties of water: it's a liquid at room temperature, it's transparent, and it can dissolve many substances.

Let me know if you'd like more examples!