Isotopes
Isotopes are variants of the same chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their atomic nuclei. This means they have the same atomic number but different atomic masses. For example, carbon has two stable isotopes: carbon-12, with 6 protons and 6 neutrons, and carbon-14, with 6 protons and 8 neutrons. Isotopes can behave similarly in chemical reactions but may have different physical properties and stability. Some isotopes are stable, while others are radioactive and can decay over time, emitting radiation.
Additional Insights
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Isotopes are variants of the same chemical element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei. This means they have the same atomic number but different atomic masses. For example, carbon has isotopes like carbon-12 and carbon-14; the numbers indicate the total number of protons and neutrons. While isotopes of an element behave similarly in chemical reactions, some isotopes are unstable and radioactive, leading to applications in dating ancient artifacts or in medical treatments. Thus, isotopes provide valuable insights in both science and practical applications.