Chapter 17, Problem 27A

To determine

To explain: The information concluded about an element from its atomic number.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The atom of an element is composed of positively charged nucleus surrounded by a negatively charged electrons. These electrons are revolving round the nucleus in regular orbits. Nucleus of an atom comprises of the protons and neutrons. The number of electrons present in an atom is equal to the number of protons in that atom.

The atomic number of an element is equal to the number of protons present in its nucleus. Thus by knowing the atomic number of an element one can realize the number of protons present in the nucleus of its atom. This is the singular characteristic of an atoms of a particular element. Hence the atoms of different elements are distinguished by its atomic number.