stable isotopes
Stable isotopes are variants of elements that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their atomic nuclei. This difference in neutrons leads to variations in atomic mass. Unlike unstable isotopes, which decay and emit radiation, stable isotopes do not change over time and remain the same. They are found in nature and can be used in various scientific fields, such as geology, archaeology, and biology, to trace origins, study environments, and understand processes, because they provide reliable markers that reflect past conditions.
Additional Insights
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Stable isotopes are variations of chemical elements that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei. This gives them different atomic masses, but they do not decay over time, making them "stable." For example, carbon-12 and carbon-13 are stable isotopes of carbon. Scientists use stable isotopes in various fields, including archaeology, environmental science, and medicine, to study processes, trace origins, and understand biological pathways because they can reveal important information about natural phenomena without altering the system being studied.
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Stable isotopes are variants of elements that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei. This means they behave chemically the same, but have slightly different masses. For example, carbon has stable isotopes like carbon-12 and carbon-13. These isotopes are used in various scientific fields, including biology, geology, and environmental science, to track processes, date materials, or study climate changes. Because they don’t decay over time, researchers can analyze them to gain insights into everything from ancient ecosystems to food sources.