Question

which of these properties is the best one to use for identification of an element?
the number of neutrons in the atomic nucleus
the number of protons in the atomic nucleus
the number of isotopes that are formed by the element
the number of charges on ions of the element

Explanation:

• The number of protons in an atom's nucleus is the atomic number, which uniquely identifies an element. Different isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different neutrons, so neutron count can't identify an element. The number of isotopes or ion charges varies and isn't unique to identify an element.

Answer:

B. the number of protons in the atomic nucleus