What is the impact of proton differences on element properties?

[ascendant]

A difference in protons...

Im not sure weather this is a pure chemistry question or if it has to do with physics as well so i posted in both forums...please don't hate me.

How does a difference in the number of protons in an element lead to such a difference in the properties (color, texture, form, etc.) of elements? I.E Gold and Mercury. This question has been driving me crazy and I would really appreciate any answers. Thank You.

 

[Vanadium 50]

Atoms are neutral, so the number of protons determines the number of electrons, and the electrons partricipate in chemical reactions.

 

[ascendant]

Atoms are neutral, so the number of protons determines the number of electrons, and the electrons partricipate in chemical reactions.

Thanks for the reply. I should have explained that I am a layman in the field... How do the electrons "participate" in chemical reactions that lead to such a diversity of properties . How does the one extra electron in mercury make it so different from gold?

 

[Vanadium 50]

Essentially, that question is "what is chemistry", and takes a textbook to explain.

 

[ascendant]

Essentially, that question is "what is chemistry", and takes a textbook to explain.

well its ok some really nice guy explained it in my post on the https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=428114".. thanks anyway.