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A chemical element is any substance that cannot be decomposed into simpler substances by ordinary chemical processes. Elements are the fundamental materials of which all matter is composed. Learn more about the origins, distribution, and characteristics of chemical elements in this article. A chemical element is a species of atom defined by its number of protons. The number of protons is called the atomic number of that element . For example, oxygen has an atomic number of 8: each oxygen atom has 8 protons in its nucleus. Atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei, known as isotopes of the element . Atoms of one element can be transformed into atoms of a different element in nuclear reactions, which change an atom's atomic number. Almost all ... What Is Element ? A Straightforward Definition At its core, an element is a pure substance that consists entirely of one type of atom. Elements cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. They are defined by the number of protons in the nucleus of their atoms, known as the atomic number. This unique number determines an element ’s identity and its position on the periodic table. Essential Characteristics of an Element Atomic Structure: Every element is made up of atoms ... Learn what an element is in chemistry, see real-life examples, and understand element classification, properties, and how to distinguish elements from compounds. Ideal for students in classes 7–12.
