An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains all the chemical properties of an element. It is represented by the symbol of an element, which is the first...
An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains all the chemical properties of an element. It is represented by the symbol of an element, which is the first letter of its name, followed by a lowercase letter or symbol representing the element.
The atomic number of an atom is unique and identifies the element. It is equal to the number of protons in the atom's nucleus. The atomic number of an atom determines the number of electrons in the atom. Elements with the same atomic number are chemically equivalent and have similar properties.
The mass number of an atom is the total number of protons and neutrons in the atom. It is equal to the atomic number of the element. The mass number of an atom can be found by adding the atomic number of protons and neutrons.
For example, the element carbon has an atomic number of 6. This means that a carbon atom has 6 protons. The atomic number and mass number of carbon are both 6