Everything is made up of one or more elements (chemical element, abbreviated as CE).  Chemical elements are pure substances made up of atoms that have the same number of protons in their atomic nuclei.  These atoms are characterized by unique physical and chemical properties that distinguish them from other elements.  There are currently 118 known chemical elements, each with its own atomic number, symbol, and name.  Elements can be classified into different groups based on their properties, such as metals, nonmetals, and metalloids.

Chemical elements play a fundamental role in the composition of matter and are essential building blocks for all materials in the universe.  They are used in a wide range of applications, from basic household items like salt and oxygen to advanced technologies like semiconductors and nuclear reactors.  The periodic table of elements is a visual representation of the chemical elements organized by their atomic structure and properties. It is a valuable tool in understanding the properties and behavior of elements and their role in chemistry, physics, and materials science.