How can there be thousands of different atoms when there are only a little over 100 elements?

Question

Of course an element is made of many atoms, but be more descriptive.

Answer 1

The elements are classified by how many protons are in the nucleus (positively charged subatomic particles) of this element's atom. However, some elements have isotopes, the atoms of which will have a different number of neutrons (subatomic particles with no charge at all).

For instance Carbon 12, is the standard carbon mentioned in the periodic table. However, Carbon 60 (Buckminsterfullerene), while technically the same element as Carbon 12 (it still has 6 protons in the nucleus), is a totally different atom being much larger and heavier.

Answer 2

Are you sure the thousands that you are describing are actually atoms in different phases? Consider that for Oxygen there are 2 atoms; with nitrogen 2 atoms. These are polyatomic molecules but also elements. It changes if you use the term "elemental oxygen". There are many polyatomic molecules. If you scan throughout the periodic table many such instances occur. Aside from the Radionuclide area that particular occurrence(s) is the most explanation necessary.

Answer 3

1. atoms can be made of MANY atoms.
2. there are a lot of atoms that are the same element as other atoms.
ex: H2O
it has 2 hydrogen atoms and an oxygen atom.
think of how many water molecules there are in the world.

that is how there are many more atoms than elements

if you need me to explain more just ask.

Answer 4

how can there be thousands of different songs when there are only seven notes? how come there are so many superb works in the English language when we only have 26 letters and five vowels? how long is a ball of string?

Answer 5

there are only 26 letters in the alphabet but they're an enormus ammount of words

Answer 6

are you considering isotopes?
one element can have a whole lot of them, and they can add up.