In the periodic table, zinc has atomic number 30. Which of the following elements has an atomic number greater than that of zinc?

Introduction / Context:
Comparing atomic numbers helps you quickly determine the relative positions of elements in the periodic table and understand basic trends. Zinc, a transition metal, has atomic number 30. The question asks which element among the options has a higher atomic number, meaning it appears later in the periodic sequence. This type of question checks both memorisation of common atomic numbers and ability to reason about positions in the table.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Zinc (Zn) has atomic number 30.
• The options are copper (Cu), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and bromine (Br).
• Atomic numbers for these common elements are well known and appear frequently in exam tables.
• We assume the standard periodic arrangement by increasing atomic number.

Concept / Approach:
Atomic number equals the number of protons in an atom and uniquely identifies each element. Elements are listed in the periodic table in order of increasing atomic number. To solve this question, we recall or look up the atomic numbers of copper, iron, chromium, and bromine, then compare each with 30. Any element whose atomic number is greater than 30 will appear after zinc in the periodic sequence and satisfies the condition.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall atomic numbers of the options. Chromium (Cr) has atomic number 24. Iron (Fe) has atomic number 26. Copper (Cu) has atomic number 29. Bromine (Br) has atomic number 35. Step 2: Compare each with zinc's atomic number, 30. 24 (Cr) < 30, so chromium is less than zinc. 26 (Fe) < 30, so iron is less than zinc. 29 (Cu) < 30, so copper is also less than zinc. 35 (Br) > 30, so bromine has a greater atomic number than zinc.

Verification / Alternative check:
Looking at the periodic table, chromium, iron, and copper are all transition metals in earlier periods or earlier positions. Zinc is usually placed at the end of the first transition series. Bromine, however, is a halogen in Group 17 and is located in Period 4, to the right of zinc. As we move across a period from left to right, atomic number increases. Since bromine appears to the right of zinc in the same period, it must have a higher atomic number, which is indeed 35. This visual check on the periodic table confirms our earlier numerical comparison.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A (Copper): With atomic number 29, copper is just before zinc, not after, so its atomic number is smaller. Option B (Iron): Atomic number 26, which clearly lies earlier in the periodic table than zinc at 30. Option C (Chromium): Atomic number 24, again smaller than zinc, so it does not satisfy the requirement.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse zinc with neighbouring transition metals and may wrongly assume copper comes after zinc because of alphabetical order or everyday familiarity. Another mistake is to rely on approximate atomic masses instead of atomic numbers. Always remember that the periodic table is organised strictly by atomic number, not by mass or by symbol. Keeping a mental picture of the first few rows of the table, especially around the 3d transition metals, can help quickly answer such questions.

Final Answer:
The element whose atomic number is greater than that of zinc is Bromine.