which of these is always equal to the number of protons in an atom

You didn't finish the question since you offered no choices. However, the correct answer must be either the number of electrons or the atomic number. If this doesn't take care of your question, please clarify and repost.

Ayo whas good I see that im 12 years late but honestly, ion know myself. 🤷🏽

Which of what? Apparently there's more to the question -- and it didn't print.

The number of protons in an atom is known as the atomic number. The atomic number is a unique identifier for each element on the periodic table. It tells you the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom of a specific element. Therefore, the answer to your question is that the atomic number of an element is always equal to the number of protons in an atom of that element.