The atomic numbers in the periodic table are continuous because they represent a sequential ordering of the elements based on their number of protons. Each element in the periodic table is assigned a unique atomic number, which corresponds to the number of protons found in the nucleus of its atoms.
The periodic table is organized in such a way that elements with similar chemical properties are grouped together in vertical columns called groups or families. These elements have the same number of valence electrons, which determines their chemical behavior. As you move from left to right across a row (or period) in the periodic table, the atomic number increases by one, indicating the addition of one more proton in the nucleus.
For example, hydrogen (H) has an atomic number of 1 because it has one proton, while helium (He) has an atomic number of 2 because it has two protons. As you continue across the periodic table, the atomic number keeps increasing, indicating the addition of more protons and, in most cases, more neutrons in the nucleus.
The continuity of atomic numbers allows us to identify and locate elements accurately in the periodic table. It also provides a basis for understanding the trends in various properties of elements as you move along a row or down a column in the periodic table.