the term element refers to atoms that have the same number of\n\na. ions\n\nb. electrons\n\nc. protons

Brief Explanations:

Isotopes are atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Isobars have the same mass - number but different atomic numbers. Isotones have the same number of neutrons. Isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structures. The term "isotope" refers to atoms that have the same number of protons.

Answer:

A. protons