Cerium
Atomic number 58 means that every Cerium nucleus contains 58 protons. That proton count is the element's identity: change it and you no longer have Cerium.
Start with the nucleus
Atomic number 58 means that every Cerium nucleus contains 58 protons. That proton count is the element's identity: change it and you no longer have Cerium.
Cerium (Ce) is chemical element 58. It belongs to the lanthanoids, and its reference state at room temperature is a solid. Those basic facts are a useful starting point for its chemistry and applications.
In practice, it turns up most often in catalysts, glass polish and lighter flints.
See the atom
Conceptual visual: electron shells are a learning aid, not a literal picture of quantum orbitals.
What this number means
Atomic number 58 means that every Cerium nucleus contains 58 protons. That proton count is the element's identity: change it and you no longer have Cerium.