What do atomic numbers represent?

1 Answer
anor277
Mar 26, 2016

The atomic number, ZZ, is the number of positively charged particles within the nucleus.

Explanation:

So ZZ defines the identity of the element, if ZZ == 11, the element is hydrogen; if ZZ == 33, the element is lithium; if ZZ == 2323, the element is vanadium.

Do you have to remember these numbers? NO, because for every exam you sit in chemistry or physics you MUST be supplied with a copy of the Periodic Table.

So, if ZZ represents the number of positively charged nuclear particles, how many electrons, negatively charged particles does the neutral element contain?

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