What is the relationship between atomic number and the number of protons?

The atomic number is defined as the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom. This fundamental concept in chemistry and physics establishes a direct correlation between atomic number and the number of protons, meaning that for any given element, the atomic number is indeed equal to the number of protons. This relationship is crucial because it not only helps identify the element but also determines its chemical properties and how it interacts with other elements. Thus, knowing the atomic number allows one to understand the element's identity and its position on the periodic table.

Understanding this relationship is essential for grasping more complex topics in human anatomy and physiology, such as how elements interact within biological systems, as the properties of elements are rooted in their atomic structure.