Explain why elements are different from each other?

Answer 1

The difference between elements stems from their atomic structure. The difference between one element and another stems from the number of protons and electrons in each atom. Each element has its own unique number of protons and electrons per atom eg Hydrogen atoms have 1 proton and 1 electron, Helium 2, Lithium 3 and so on. The number of electrons has a major influence on how the atom behaves when in contact with elements of a different element. This affects its ability to form chemical compounds, its ability to form ions, its ability to burn (oxidise), and so on. The number of protons in the atoms' nuclei (and the number of neutrons asociated with them) affects the mass of the electron and its ability to move or vibrate. Roughly speaking , the larger the nucleus (ie the number of protons and neutrons) then the more likely the element is to be a liquid or even a solid at any given temperature. And in the case of solids some atoms or molecules are able to form lattice structures better then others which affects the strength of the material. Some atomic structures are unstable and give off atomic radiation as they change to a more stable structure. These elements are radioactive.