Why aren't there infinite numbers of elements?

While there are infinitely many possible combinations of particles and forces, the number of known chemical elements is finite because each element is defined by a specific number of protons in its atomic nucleus. The Periodic Table currently includes 118 confirmed elements, which are categorized based on their atomic number, ranging from hydrogen (1 proton) to oganesson (118 protons). Furthermore, the stability of elements limits their existence; heavier elements tend to be unstable and decay quickly, resulting in a finite number of stable, naturally occurring elements. Thus, while the universe is vast and complex, the current understanding of elements is limited by these fundamental principles.