What does the atomic number of an element represent?

The atomic number of an element is a fundamental property that represents the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. Each element on the periodic table has a unique atomic number, which is critical for determining its position in the table and its chemical behavior. The number of protons is essential because it defines the identity of the element; for example, hydrogen has an atomic number of 1, meaning it has one proton, while carbon has an atomic number of 6, indicating it has six protons.

Although electrons typically equal the number of protons in a neutral atom, the atomic number specifically refers only to protons. The atomic mass, on the other hand, is related to both protons and neutrons, representing the total number of these particles in the nucleus. Neutrons are not indicated by the atomic number, as they are counted separately in any element's isotopes. Thus, identifying the atomic number as the number of protons is essential for understanding the fundamental properties of elements and their interactions in chemical reactions.