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Learning objective

Describe what an isotope is and acknowledge that an element can have multiple isotopes.

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

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  • Read the explanation.
  • Check key terms.
  • Practise with linked questions.
Cambridge IGCSE PhysicsNuclear physicsCore content

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Quick explanation

Describe what an isotope is and acknowledge that an element can have multiple isotopes

  • This point belongs to The nucleus, especially The nucleus outcomes.
  • You need to be able to describe what an isotope is and acknowledge that an element can have multiple isotopes.
  • The key ideas to know are Explain and State.
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

ExplainState

Why it matters

This objective helps connect The nucleus outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for The nucleus.

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Paper 3 structured question: The nucleus

Paper 3Theory (Core)1 marks

Description

Understanding Isotopes

An isotope is a variant of an element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. For example, carbon has isotopes such as carbon-12 and carbon-14.

  1. a

    State What is an isotope?

    Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.

    [1]
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