What one factor identifies an atom as a specific element? (2 points) the number of protons. the atomic mass. the number of neutrons. the mass number.

Correct answer choice is :

A) The number of protons

Explanation:

The atomic number or proton amount of a chemical component is the number of protons located in the nucleus of an atom. It is equal to the charge number of the nucleus. The atomic number uniquely recognizes a chemical component. Atoms with the equivalent atomic number Z but distinct neutron numbers N, and therefore distinct atomic masses, are identified as isotopes.

Option (a) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

Number of protons is the one factor which identifies an atom as a specific element.

For every neutral atom, the number of protons equals the number of electrons. Therefore, either of them helps in identifying an atom's atomic number hence an atom can be detected.

Thus, we can conclude that the option (a) is the correct answer.