What does the atomic number of an element represent?

The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. Protons are positively charged particles, and they play a crucial role in defining the identity of the element. For example, all hydrogen atoms have one proton, making their atomic number 1, while carbon atoms have six protons, giving them an atomic number of 6.

The atomic number is fundamental because it determines the element's position on the periodic table and its chemical properties. Elements are organized by increasing atomic number, which also correlates with the number of electrons in a neutral atom, but the atomic number specifically refers to protons. Understanding the significance of atomic numbers helps in grasping the structure of atoms and the principles of chemistry.