The identity of an element on the periodic table is determined by the number of _____.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking which subatomic particle determines the identity of an element in the periodic table. We need to identify this key concept related to atomic structure.
Answer
protons
The final answer is protons.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is protons.
More Information
The number of protons in an atom's nucleus determines its atomic number and, consequently, the element it represents on the periodic table. Neutrons and electrons can vary in number without changing the identity of the element.
Tips
Confusion may arise between protons and neutrons or electrons, but only protons determine elemental identity.
Sources
- The identity of a chemical element is determined by the number of - homework.study.com
- How is the identity of an element determined? - Homework.Study.com - homework.study.com
- 3.4: Atomic Mass and Atomic Number - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
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