What is the atomic number of the element tungsten?

The atomic number of an element is a fundamental property that indicates the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom of that element. For tungsten, the atomic number is 74. This means that each tungsten atom contains 74 protons, and consequently, it also has 74 electrons when the atom is neutral.

Understanding atomic numbers is crucial in the study of chemistry because they determine the element's position in the periodic table, influencing its chemical behavior and properties. Tungsten is known for its high melting point and tensile strength, which are directly related to its atomic structure. In contrast, other elements with atomic numbers like 70, 91, or 101 represent different elements with distinct properties and characteristics, making them different from tungsten in terms of chemical behavior and physical properties.