In chemistry and physics, the atomic number of an element is the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom. For example, carbon has an atomic number of 6, meaning that every carbon atom has 6 protons, along with 6 electrons and 6 neutrons (although neutrons do not affect the atomic number).
Understanding atomic number is essential for comprehending the fundamental structure of matter, the periodic table of elements, and chemical reactions. Its discovery by Henry Moseley in 1913 revolutionized our understanding of atomic structure and laid the groundwork for modern chemistry.
