Question

what determines the identity of an element?
choose 1 answer:
the number of electrons in its atomsthe number of neutrons in its atomsthe number of protons in its atoms

Explanation:

The number of protons in an atom's nucleus is called the atomic number. Each element has a unique atomic number. For example, hydrogen has an atomic number of 1 (1 proton), and carbon has an atomic number of 6 (6 protons). Electrons can be lost or gained (as in ions), and neutrons can vary (as in isotopes). But the number of protons (atomic number) always remains the same for a given element.

Answer:

C. the number of protons in its atoms