List of chemical elements in periodic table by atomic numbers, chemical symbols, atomic weight and periodic table of elements properties. Learn what atomic number is , how to find it and why it is important for chemistry. Atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom and it identifies elements in the periodic table. The atomic number denotes the number of electrons or protons in a neutral atom, whereas the mass number denotes the total number of protons and neutrons present in an atom. The number of subatomic particles in an atom can be calculated from the atom's atomic number and mass number . Part of Chemistry (Single Science) Atomic structure and the periodic table