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An '''element''' is a single type of [[atom]] as defined by its [[atomic number]], which is the number of [[protons]] in its [[nucleus]].<ref>Wile, Dr. Jay L. ''Exploring Creation With Physical Science''. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1999, 2000</ref> In contrast, a single element may have varying [[mass number]]s, relating to the number of neutrons in its nucleus.  

An '''element''' is a single type of [[atom]] as defined by its [[atomic number]], which is the number of [[protons]] in its [[nucleus]].<ref>Wile, Dr. Jay L. ''Exploring Creation With Physical Science''. Apologia Educational Ministries, Inc. 1999, 2000</ref> In contrast, a single element may have varying [[mass number]]s, relating to the number of neutrons in its nucleus.  

The element [[hydrogen]] has only one proton whereas the element [[uranium]] has 92, and there are elements with even more protons than that. However, uranium is the largest of the stable elements occurring in nature.   

The element [[hydrogen]] has only one proton whereas the element [[uranium]] has 92, and there are elements with even more protons than that. However, uranium is the largest naturally occurring element in nature.   

All known elements are listed on the [[periodic table]], with the ones with more protons than uranium produced in a laboratory. Joining atoms of the same or different elements produces chemical [[compound]]s. The elements and their compounds make up all matter on the earth and quite possibly all matter outside of the earth as well.

All known elements are listed on the [[periodic table]], with the ones with more protons than uranium produced in a laboratory. Joining atoms of the same or different elements produces chemical [[compound]]s. The elements and their compounds make up all matter on the earth and quite possibly all matter outside of the earth as well.