While it is true that the number of protons in the nucleus distinguishes one element from another, giving each element a unique name is important for several reasons:
Historical context: The naming of elements has a long history that predates the understanding of atomic structure. Many elements were discovered and named before the concept of atomic numbers and protons emerged. These names have become widely accepted and recognized in the scientific community and beyond.
Practicality and ease of communication: Using unique names for elements allows for easier communication and avoids confusion. It provides a concise and standardized way to refer to specific elements, especially when discussing them in scientific literature, education, research, or everyday conversations. Imagine if we had to refer to elements solely by their atomic numbers—it would be cumbersome and less intuitive for most people.
Chemical behavior and properties: Elements often exhibit unique chemical behaviors and properties that are associated with their names. The name of an element can provide insights into its characteristics, historical context, or the source from which it was discovered. These associations are useful for scientists, researchers, and students studying chemistry or related fields.
International standardization: The names of elements are internationally standardized to maintain consistency across different languages and cultures. This ensures clear communication and understanding among scientists worldwide. The International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) is responsible for naming and approving new elements, following established guidelines and conventions.
In summary, while atomic numbers are crucial for identifying and distinguishing elements based on their atomic structure, unique names provide practicality, historical context, standardization, and a way to convey specific chemical behaviors and properties associated with each element. Both the names and atomic numbers work together to provide a comprehensive system for identifying and referring to elements.