Isotopes are like different siblings of the same element, but with unique traits. They are similar, yet they have some key differences:
Neutrons: Isotopes have the same number of protons, which is what makes an element what it is. However, they have different numbers of neutrons. For example, carbon has isotopes like (which has 6 neutrons) and (which has 8 neutrons).
Mass: Because they have different numbers of neutrons, isotopes also have different atomic masses.
Isotopes aren’t just interesting; they are actually very useful! Here are a couple of ways they help us:
Medical imaging: For example, is used in medical scans to help doctors see inside the body.
Radiometric dating: is used to figure out how old ancient objects are.
So, isotopes play some really cool roles in science and in our everyday lives!
Isotopes are like different siblings of the same element, but with unique traits. They are similar, yet they have some key differences:
Neutrons: Isotopes have the same number of protons, which is what makes an element what it is. However, they have different numbers of neutrons. For example, carbon has isotopes like (which has 6 neutrons) and (which has 8 neutrons).
Mass: Because they have different numbers of neutrons, isotopes also have different atomic masses.
Isotopes aren’t just interesting; they are actually very useful! Here are a couple of ways they help us:
Medical imaging: For example, is used in medical scans to help doctors see inside the body.
Radiometric dating: is used to figure out how old ancient objects are.
So, isotopes play some really cool roles in science and in our everyday lives!