Atomic Numbers


Atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. It determines the chemical properties of an element and its place in the periodic table. In space and astronautical engineering, atomic numbers are important in nuclear reactions and power generation. For example, nuclear reactors on spacecraft use uranium-235 or plutonium-238, which have specific atomic numbers, to generate power. Atomic numbers are also used in the design of radiation shielding for spacecraft and spacesuits to protect astronauts from harmful radiation in space.


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