By definition, the correct answer is option D. Scientists can identify an element by looking at the structure of a single atom because the number of protons can be determined, and thus its identity.
All atoms are composed of a central nucleus in which there are particles with a positive electric charge, the protons, and neutron, which is an electrically neutral subatomic particle, around which other particles with a negative electric charge that are electrons move.
Thus, the atom is electrically neutral, since the positive charge of the protons is compensated by the negative charge of the electrons.
Atoms of different elements have different amounts of protons. The atomic number (which is identified by the letter Z) indicates the amount of protons that is present in the nucleus of an atom.
This number is then responsible for defining the electronic configuration of the atom and the chemical properties of the element. Then it is possible to say that the number of protons in the nucleus, that is to say the atomic number Z, of an atom determines its identity.
Finally, the correct answer is option D. Scientists can identify an element by looking at the structure of a single atom because the number of protons can be determined, and thus its identity.
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