Here's why:
* Atomic number represents protons: The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
* Neutral atoms have equal protons and electrons: In a neutral atom, the number of protons (positive charge) is equal to the number of electrons (negative charge) to maintain a balanced charge.
Example:
* Carbon has an atomic number of 6. This means a neutral carbon atom has 6 protons and 6 electrons.
Important Note: This applies to neutral atoms. Ions, which are atoms that have gained or lost electrons, will have a different number of electrons than their atomic number.
