Copper has atomic number 29. The atomic number of which of the following elements is greater than that of copper, meaning it appears later in the periodic table?

Introduction / Context:
The periodic table arranges elements in order of increasing atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus. Being able to compare atomic numbers of common elements helps you quickly determine their relative positions and understand periodic trends. This question asks you to identify which element among the options has an atomic number greater than that of copper, which is 29, and therefore lies to the right or below copper in the table.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The atomic number of copper (Cu) is given as 29.
• The options are iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn).
• We assume standard periodic table values for atomic numbers.
• We compare each element's atomic number with 29.

Concept / Approach:
Atomic number is unique for each element and increases as you move from left to right across a period and down groups in the periodic table. For the 3d transition series, chromium has atomic number 24, manganese 25, iron 26, cobalt 27, nickel 28, copper 29, and zinc 30. From this sequence, it is clear that zinc has atomic number 30, which is greater than 29. The other elements listed—chromium, manganese, and iron—all have atomic numbers less than 29, so they appear before copper in the periodic sequence.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall atomic numbers for the given elements. Chromium (Cr): 24 Manganese (Mn): 25 Iron (Fe): 26 Zinc (Zn): 30 Step 2: Compare each atomic number with that of copper (29). 24, 25, and 26 are all less than 29, so Cr, Mn, and Fe have atomic numbers below that of copper. 30 is greater than 29, so Zn has an atomic number greater than copper. Step 3: Conclude that zinc is the only element in the list with atomic number greater than 29.

Verification / Alternative check:
If you look at the 4th period transition metal row of the periodic table, you will see the sequence: Sc (21), Ti (22), V (23), Cr (24), Mn (25), Fe (26), Co (27), Ni (28), Cu (29), Zn (30). This ordering by atomic number confirms that copper is followed immediately by zinc, while iron, chromium, and manganese appear earlier. Atomic number is fundamental and does not change, so any reliable periodic table will confirm these values and the conclusion that zinc has the higher atomic number.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (Iron): Atomic number 26, which is less than 29; iron appears before copper in the periodic table. Option B (Chromium): Atomic number 24; earlier in the same period than copper. Option D (Manganese): Atomic number 25; also earlier than copper.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse relative positions because they memorise elements alphabetically or by common usage rather than by atomic number. Another mistake is to misremember the exact atomic numbers of transition metals, which are closely spaced. A helpful strategy is to memorise short sequences, such as the 3d series from Sc to Zn, or to remember a few key reference points like Fe (26), Cu (29), and Zn (30) so you can quickly compare nearby elements. This makes questions about “greater than” or “less than” atomic numbers much easier to answer.

Final Answer:
The element whose atomic number is greater than that of copper is Zinc.