What defines an element in chemistry?

An element in chemistry is defined by a collection of atoms that are identical in mass, structure, and behavior. This means that each atom within a given element has the same number of protons in its nucleus, which determines its atomic number and, consequently, its chemical properties. The uniformity of these atoms is what distinguishes one element from another; for instance, all carbon atoms have six protons, while all oxygen atoms have eight.

This definition emphasizes the fundamental nature of elements, as they cannot be broken down into simpler substances through chemical means. The consistency in mass, structure, and behavior across all atoms of an element ensures that they will react similarly in chemical reactions, providing predictable characteristics that are essential for understanding chemical interactions and compounds.

Other concepts, such as mixtures of different substances or compounds made up of various elements, do not fit the definition of an element since they involve combinations that lack the strict uniformity of atomic structure and properties inherent to elements.