chemical element
A chemical element is a fundamental substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances through chemical reactions. Each element is made up of atoms, which are the building blocks of matter. Elements are defined by the number of protons in their atomic nuclei, known as the atomic number. They are organized in the periodic table, where each element has unique properties and behaviors. For example, hydrogen is the lightest element, while iron is known for its strength. There are 118 known elements, and they combine in various ways to form all the materials and substances we encounter in our daily lives.
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A chemical element is a basic substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means. Each element consists of atoms with a specific number of protons in their nuclei, which defines their unique properties. For example, hydrogen has one proton, while oxygen has eight. Elements are represented on the periodic table, where they are categorized into metals, nonmetals, and metalloids. All matter is made up of elements, which combine in various ways to form compounds, like water or carbon dioxide. Understanding elements helps us comprehend the nature of substances around us.