Isotopes

Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. This means that isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number but different mass numbers. The different number of neutrons in isotopes results in variations in atomic mass.

Key Points to Remember:

1. Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
2. Isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number but different mass numbers.
3. Differences in the number of neutrons result in variations in atomic mass.

Examples of Isotopes:

One common example of isotopes is carbon. Carbon-12, Carbon-13, and Carbon-14 are three isotopes of carbon. They all have 6 protons, but the number of neutrons differs, giving each isotope a different mass number.

Study Guide Questions:

1. What are isotopes?
2. Explain the similarities and differences between isotopes of the same element.
3. Provide examples of isotopes and explain their differences in terms of atomic structure.
4. How do isotopes contribute to variations in atomic mass?

Review Quiz:

1. What is the defining characteristic of isotopes?
2. True or False: Isotopes of the same element have different atomic numbers.
3. Give an example of an isotope and explain its atomic structure.
4. How do isotopes contribute to the variations in atomic mass of an element?

[Isotopes] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Atomic Structure - Set IIChemistry • High School
• Atomic Structure - Set IChemistry • High School
• Elements and the periodic tableChemistry • High School