Question detail

If an isotope of carbon has a mass number of 14 and an atomic number of 6, how many neutrons does it have?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Atomic structure

Question

A. 6 neutrons
B. 8 neutrons
C. 14 neutrons
D. 20 neutrons

Answer

8 neutrons

Explanation

To find the number of neutrons, use the formula: Neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number. Substituting the values: 14 - 6 = 8 neutrons.

Common mistake

Confusing Isotopes with Ions

Students often confuse isotopes with ions, thinking they are the same because both involve variations of atoms.

Remember that isotopes have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, while ions are atoms that have gained or lost electrons, resulting in a charge. For example, Carbon-12 and Carbon-14 are isotopes of carbon, while Na+ is a sodium ion.

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