Determine whether each of the following statements is true or false. b. Every atom of a given element has the same number of protons.

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Identify the definition of an element in terms of atomic structure.

Recall that the atomic number of an element is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus.

Understand that all atoms of a given element have the same atomic number, which means they have the same number of protons.

Consider isotopes, which are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons, but the same number of protons.

Conclude that since the atomic number (number of protons) is consistent for all atoms of a given element, the statement is true.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Atomic Structure

Atoms are the basic units of matter, consisting of protons, neutrons, and electrons. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus defines the element and is known as the atomic number. For example, all carbon atoms have six protons, distinguishing them from other elements.

Element Definition

An element is a pure substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Each element is characterized by its unique number of protons, which determines its identity and properties. Therefore, all atoms of a specific element share the same number of protons.

Isotopes

Isotopes are variants of a particular chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. While isotopes of an element differ in mass, they still retain the same chemical properties because they have the same number of protons. This concept reinforces that every atom of a given element has the same number of protons.

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Isotopes

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