What does an atomic number represent in an atom

Subject : Chemistry

Question:

What does an atomic number represent in an atom?

Expert Verified Solution:

Description: The atomic number of an atom represents the number of protons in its nucleus. This number is unique to each element and determines the element’s identity and its position on the periodic table. For example, an atom with an atomic number of 6 is carbon, as it has 6 protons in its nucleus. The atomic number also indirectly indicates the number of electrons in a neutral atom, which helps in understanding the atom’s electronic configuration and chemical properties.

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