Question

How can an element be defined as consisting of any mixture of atoms with a given atomic number?

• A. Determines the mass of of element in the mixture
• B. Determines the chemical properties of an element
• C. Both A and B
  
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is B Determines the chemical properties of an element

The number of electrons in each element's electron shells, particularly the outermost valence shell, is the primary factor in determining its chemical bonding behavior. Hence, it is the atomic number alone that determines the chemical properties of an element; and it is for this reason that an element can be defined as consisting of any mixture of atoms with a given atomic number.