Which shows the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom?

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Multiple Choice

Which shows the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom?

Explanation:
The number of protons in the nucleus is what defines the identity of an element, and that count is shown by the atomic number. The atomic number tells you exactly how many protons are present, and it’s the property used on the periodic table to distinguish elements from one another. Atomic mass combines protons and neutrons, so it’s not the pure count of protons. Neutrons are counted separately and vary among isotopes, while electrons orbit the nucleus and, in a neutral atom, balance the proton count but don’t tell you how many protons are in the nucleus.

The number of protons in the nucleus is what defines the identity of an element, and that count is shown by the atomic number. The atomic number tells you exactly how many protons are present, and it’s the property used on the periodic table to distinguish elements from one another. Atomic mass combines protons and neutrons, so it’s not the pure count of protons. Neutrons are counted separately and vary among isotopes, while electrons orbit the nucleus and, in a neutral atom, balance the proton count but don’t tell you how many protons are in the nucleus.

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