Atomic number is the number of what?

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Discover the NOVA Hunting the Elements Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare effectively for your assessment!

Multiple Choice

Atomic number is the number of what?

Explanation:
The atomic number is the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus. Protons are positively charged and uniquely identify the element, so the count of protons fixes which element you have. Neutrons add to the mass but don’t change the element’s identity, and electrons (in a neutral atom) balance the charge but don’t define the element. The mass number, by contrast, is protons plus neutrons, not just protons. So the atomic number corresponds to the number of protons.

The atomic number is the number of protons in an atom’s nucleus. Protons are positively charged and uniquely identify the element, so the count of protons fixes which element you have. Neutrons add to the mass but don’t change the element’s identity, and electrons (in a neutral atom) balance the charge but don’t define the element. The mass number, by contrast, is protons plus neutrons, not just protons. So the atomic number corresponds to the number of protons.

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