Isotopes are like different versions of the same element. They have the same number of protons but the number of neutrons can be different. This can change how stable an atom is in a few important ways:
Stable vs. Unstable Isotopes: Some isotopes are stable. This means they stay as they are over time. Other isotopes are unstable and can break down, which releases radiation.
Nuclear Stability: For an atom to be stable, there needs to be a good balance between protons and neutrons. If there are too many or too few neutrons, the isotope can become unstable.
Applications and Examples: For example, Carbon-12 is a stable isotope. But Carbon-14 is unstable and it’s used to date old organic materials.
In short, isotopes play a big role in deciding if an atom will stay the same or break down.
Isotopes are like different versions of the same element. They have the same number of protons but the number of neutrons can be different. This can change how stable an atom is in a few important ways:
Stable vs. Unstable Isotopes: Some isotopes are stable. This means they stay as they are over time. Other isotopes are unstable and can break down, which releases radiation.
Nuclear Stability: For an atom to be stable, there needs to be a good balance between protons and neutrons. If there are too many or too few neutrons, the isotope can become unstable.
Applications and Examples: For example, Carbon-12 is a stable isotope. But Carbon-14 is unstable and it’s used to date old organic materials.
In short, isotopes play a big role in deciding if an atom will stay the same or break down.