What does the atomic number of an element represent?

The atomic number of an element is defined as the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. This characteristic is fundamental because it determines the identity of the element. Each element has a unique atomic number, which is listed on the periodic table. For example, hydrogen has an atomic number of 1, meaning it has one proton, while carbon has an atomic number of 6, indicating six protons.

The atomic number also influences the chemical properties of the element, as it determines the arrangement of electrons around the nucleus. Since the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons in a neutral atom, the atomic number also indirectly reflects the number of electrons when the atom is neutral. However, the atomic number specifically refers to protons.

Understanding the atomic number is crucial in various chemical concepts, including how elements interact and bond with one another.