Learning objective
Explain the existence of isotopes using different neutron numbers.
Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.
At a glance
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Flashcards
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Questions
Topic
Atomic structure
Subtopic
Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry
Study support
Understand this objective
Quick explanation
Explain the existence of isotopes using different neutron numbers
- This point belongs to Atomic structure, especially Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry.
- You need to be able to explain the existence of isotopes using different neutron numbers.
- The key ideas to know are isotope.
- Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.
Key concepts
Why it matters
This objective helps connect Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Atomic structure.
Quick student answer
Which of the following statements best explains why isotopes of an element have the same atomic number but different mass numbers?
Direct answer
They have different numbers of neutrons.
Key terms
- Isotope: An atom of a given element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons, resulting in a different mass number.
- Mass number: The total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus, expressed as A = Z + N.
Common trap
Confusing atomic number with mass number: Clarify that isotopes have the same atomic number (protons) but different neutron numbers, which changes the mass number.
Related questions
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Question 1 of 3
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Flashcard prompts
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Flashcard 1 of 3
Revision tools
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Flashcards0 linked cards
Practice Questions0 linked questions
Revision notestopic notes
Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.
Open revision notesRelated learning objectives
- Explain that scientific understanding of atomic structure has developed over time.
Fundamental particles
- State the relative charge and relative mass of protons, neutrons and electrons.
Fundamental particles
- Describe an atom as a nucleus containing protons and neutrons surrounded by electrons.
Fundamental particles
- Use particle properties to compare atoms, ions and isotopes.
Fundamental particles
- Determine the numbers of protons, neutrons and electrons in atoms and ions from mass number, atomic number and charge.
Mass number, isotopes and mass spectrometry