Atomic __________ of an element is a whole number.

ANS:B - number

Atomic number:

• The atomic number of an element is a fundamental property denoted by the symbol 𝑍Z.
• It represents the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element.
• It uniquely identifies each element in the periodic table.
• Since atoms are electrically neutral, the atomic number also represents the number of electrons surrounding the nucleus in a neutral atom.
• The atomic number determines the chemical properties of an element and its position in the periodic table.
• The atomic number is always a whole number because protons cannot be divided; they are fundamental particles with a charge of +1+1.

• Hydrogen (𝐻H) has an atomic number of 1, indicating it has one proton in its nucleus.
• Carbon (𝐶C) has an atomic number of 6, meaning it has six protons in its nucleus.
• Oxygen (𝑂O) has an atomic number of 8, indicating it has eight protons in its nucleus.