Question

What do protons determine about an element?

Answer 1

The identity of the element.

Explanation:

The number of protons, the number of positively charged, massive nuclear particles, gives `Z`, the atomic number. `Z` determines the identity of the element: `Z=1` , hydrogen; `Z=2` , helium; `Z=3` , lithium;........... `Z=26`, iron;.......... `Z=92` , uranium.

You don't have to remember these numbers, because for every exam in chemistry and physics you ever sit, you should be issued with a copy of the Periodic Table as a matter of course. Nevertheless, you still have to be able to use this Table.