Identify an element from its atomic number

To identify an element from its atomic number, you simply need to look up the atomic number in the periodic table. The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in the nucleus of its atoms. Since each element has a unique number of protons, the atomic number serves as a distinctive identifier for elements.

Here’s how you can identify an element from its atomic number:

1. Consult the Periodic Table: The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of chemical elements, organized by their atomic number, electron configuration, and recurring chemical properties. Each element is represented by its chemical symbol, which is often a one- or two-letter abbreviation derived from its name.

2. Locate the Atomic Number: Find the element’s atomic number in the periodic table. The atomic number is typically listed above or below the element’s symbol.

3. Identify the Element: Once you locate the atomic number, you can determine the corresponding element. The atomic number uniquely identifies each element, so there is a one-to-one correspondence between atomic numbers and elements.

For example:

• Hydrogen has an atomic number of 1.
• Helium has an atomic number of 2.
• Carbon has an atomic number of 6.
• Oxygen has an atomic number of 8.
• Iron has an atomic number of 26.

In summary, identifying an element from its atomic number is straightforward: simply locate the atomic number in the periodic table and find the corresponding element associated with that number.