Element - GCSE Physics Definition

In the context of GCSE Physics, an 'element' is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom, characterised by a specific number of protons in its nucleus, known as the atomic number. Elements are the fundamental building blocks of matter, and each element has unique properties. They cannot be broken down into simpler substances through chemical reactions. However, nuclear reactions such as nuclear fission and fusion can transform one element into another. Elements are systematically organised in the periodic table, where each element is represented by a unique chemical symbol. Understanding elements is crucial for studying various physical phenomena and chemical processes, as they combine to form compounds and materials encountered in everyday life.