Question detail
What is the mass number of an isotope?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Atoms and isotopes
Question
- A. The number of protons only.
- B. The total number of protons and neutrons.
- C. The number of neutrons only.
- D. The number of electrons only.
Answer
The correct answer is B: The total number of protons and neutrons..
Explanation
The correct answer is B: The total number of protons and neutrons.. This supports the learning objective "Describe radioactive isotopes as isotopes with unstable nuclei." in Mass number, atomic number and isotopes because it uses the correct atomic and nuclear radiation relationship for Atoms and isotopes. The other options are less suitable because they do not match the required Mass number, atomic number and isotopes idea: The number of protons only.; The number of neutrons only.; The number of electrons only..
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Radioactive Isotopes
Students often confuse radioactive isotopes with stable isotopes, thinking all isotopes are radioactive.
Remember that radioactive isotopes have unstable nuclei and emit radiation, while stable isotopes do not. Focus on the definition of radioactive isotopes as those with unstable nuclei.
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