What determines an element's identity?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking what factors or characteristics define an element, specifically focusing on the properties that determine what makes an element unique or recognizable in the context of chemistry.
Answer
The number of protons in an atom
The number of protons in an atom determines the identity of an element. This is also referred to as the atomic number of the element.
Answer for screen readers
The number of protons in an atom determines the identity of an element. This is also referred to as the atomic number of the element.
More Information
The number of protons in an atom's nucleus is unique to each element and is called the atomic number. Variations in the number of neutrons or electrons do not change the element's identity.
Tips
common mistakes made when solving the problem
Sources
- The number of protons in an atom determines its elemental identity - chem.fsu.edu
- How is the identity of an element determined? - homework.study.com
- What is the particle that determines the identity of an element? - socratic.org
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