What is the atomic number of an element?

1 Answer
Aug 7, 2016

The atomic number #Z# is the number of positively charged, massive nuclear particles, and defines the identity of the element.

Explanation:

If #Z=1# we have the element hydrogen, #Z=2#, helium, #Z=3#, lithium,.............#Z=24#, chromium........etc.

You won't have to remember these numbers, because for every exam you ever sit in chemistry or physics, you should be supplied with a Periodic Table as a matter of course. You still have to know how to use the Table effectively.