The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and, therefore, its identity as a particular element. In the case of hydrogen and helium, their proton counts differ because they are different elements with distinct properties.
The number of protons in an atom determines its positive charge and defines the element. Hydrogen, the lightest and simplest element, has one proton in its nucleus. Helium, on the other hand, has two protons in its nucleus, making it the second lightest element. The number of protons in an atom is fixed for a given element and is referred to as the atomic number.
The reason for the variation in the number of protons between different elements lies in the way atoms are formed. During the process of nuclear fusion in stars, such as in the core of our Sun, hydrogen nuclei combine to form helium nuclei. This fusion reaction involves the conversion of hydrogen protons into neutrons through the emission of positrons and neutrinos.
The formation of different elements with varying numbers of protons occurs through a series of fusion reactions that take place under specific conditions, including temperature and pressure. As heavier elements are formed, they require more protons in their nuclei to maintain stability and balance the electric charge.
Therefore, the number of protons in an element is not related to the Higgs field or the masses of elementary particles. The Higgs field primarily explains the mechanism of how particles acquire mass, but it does not determine the number of protons in an atom or the composition of elements.