How do atoms of one element differ from those of another element?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the fundamental differences between atoms of different elements. This involves understanding the structure of an atom and what defines an element's identity.
Answer
Atoms of different elements differ by the number of protons in their nucleus.
Atoms of different elements differ in the number of protons they have. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus defines the element's atomic number and determines its identity.
Answer for screen readers
Atoms of different elements differ in the number of protons they have. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus defines the element's atomic number and determines its identity.
More Information
The number of protons in an atom is also known as the atomic number.
Tips
It's important to remember that while the number of protons defines an element, the number of neutrons can vary, leading to isotopes of the same element.
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