How do isotopes of an element differ?

An isotope is one of two or more forms of the same chemical element. Different isotopes of an element have the same number of protons in the nucleus, giving them the same atomic number, but a different number of neutrons giving each elemental isotope a different atomic weight.

Why do isotopes of an element differ in their mass numbers?

Isotopes of an element differ in the number of neutrons in the nuclei so they have a different mass number as the mass number is the sum of a number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

What is the difference between oxygen 16 and oxygen 18?

Chemical elements are found in different versions, called isotopes. Isotopes are elements that contain the same amount of protons, but differ in the number of neutrons in their nuclei. Therefore, oxygen 16 has 8 protons and 8 neutrons, oxygen 17 has 8 protons and 9 neutrons, and oxygen 18 has 8 protons and 10 neutrons.

How do isotopes differ in their physical properties?

Isotopes of an element have different physical properties because they have different mass numbers. Chemical properties of different isotopes are almost similar. When it comes to physical properties of isotopes including mass, melting or boiling point, density, and freezing point, they are all different.

How are isotopes of the same element different?

Isotopes are atoms of the same element having same number of protons but different number of neutrons.

How are isotopes used to date an element?

The predictable half-life of different decaying isotopes allows scientists to date material based on its isotopic composition, such as with Carbon-14 dating. isotopeAny of two or more forms of an element where the atoms have the same number of protons, but a different number of neutrons within their nuclei.

How are isotopes named for their mass number?

For most elements other than hydrogen, isotopes are named for their mass number. For example, carbon atoms with the usual 6 neutrons have a mass number of 12 (6 protons + 6 neutrons = 12), so they are called carbon-12. Carbon atoms with 7 neutrons have an atomic mass of 13 (6 protons + 7 neutrons = 13).

Which is the most stable isotope of an element?

Usually one or two isotopes of an element are the most stable and common. Different isotopes of an element generally have the same physical and chemical properties because they have the same numbers of protons and electrons. An Example: Hydrogen Isotopes Hydrogen is an example of an element that has isotopes.