What does the atomic number represent?

The atomic number is a fundamental property of an element that indicates the total number of protons located in the nucleus of its atoms. This count directly determines the element's identity; for instance, hydrogen has an atomic number of 1 because it has one proton, while carbon has an atomic number of 6 due to its six protons. The atomic number is crucial because it also influences the chemical behavior and properties of the element, as the number of protons is the same as the number of electrons in a neutral atom, establishing the atom’s charge balance and, subsequently, its reactivity in chemical reactions. Therefore, the atomic number provides essential information about the structure and nature of an atom.