Question

What does an atomic number represent in an atom?

Answer 1

Hey Garcia!

The atomic number represents or stands for the distinct identity of a chemical element.

It is usually defined as the number or protons present in an atom of an element, which is also equal to the number of electrons.

Check the picture below

I hope I helped!

Answer 2

The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.

Step-by-step explanation:

Atoms have 3 main subparticles: protons, neutrons and electrons. Protons have positive charge, neutrons don't have any charge, and electrons have negative charge. Both protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus while electrons move around the nucleus.