What is the impact of proton differences on element properties?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the impact of differences in the number of protons on the properties of elements, specifically exploring how this affects characteristics such as color, texture, and form. The inquiry touches on both chemistry and physics, as participants seek to understand the underlying principles that lead to the diverse properties observed in elements like gold and mercury.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how a difference in the number of protons leads to variations in elemental properties, using gold and mercury as examples.
  • Another participant notes that atoms are neutral, indicating that the number of protons determines the number of electrons, which are involved in chemical reactions.
  • A follow-up inquiry seeks clarification on how electrons "participate" in chemical reactions and how an additional electron in mercury contributes to its distinct properties compared to gold.
  • One participant suggests that the question is fundamental to chemistry and would require a textbook explanation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty about the relationship between protons, electrons, and elemental properties. There is no consensus on the explanation of how these differences manifest in observable characteristics.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights a lack of detailed understanding regarding the role of electrons in chemical reactions and the specific contributions of proton differences to elemental properties. Some assumptions about foundational chemistry concepts remain unaddressed.

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


Vanadium 50 said:
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 :confused:. How does the one extra electron in mercury make it so different from gold?
 


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