What does the atomic number of each atom represent?

atomic number. The number of protons in an atomic nucleus; it indicates the position of an element in the periodic table. The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. In electrically neutral atoms, this number is also equal to the number of electrons orbiting about the atom's nucleus. read more

The atomic number represents or stands for the distinct identity of a chemical element. It is usually defined as the number or protons present in an atom of an element, which is also equal to the number of electrons. read more

The number of electrons in the atom are equal to the number of protons in the atom. read more