Isotopes and Their Types

Questions and Answers

What characterizes isotopes of the same element?

They have different atomic numbers but the same mass number.

They have different chemical properties but the same physical properties.

They have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. (correct)

They have the same number of protons and different numbers of electrons.

Which of the following isotopes is considered stable?

Radon-222

Carbon-12 (correct)

Carbon-14

Tritium

What is true about unstable isotopes?

They do not emit any form of radiation.

They are the most abundant isotopes in nature.

They have a constant mass number.

They undergo spontaneous emission of radiation. (correct)

What must be taken into account while handling unstable isotopes?

<p>Special precautions are required to avoid radiation exposure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are isotopes of an element arranged in the periodic table?

<p>They are found in the same location regardless of their stability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Isotope Description

Isotopes are variants of the same element with identical proton numbers but differing neutron counts.
They occupy the same position in the periodic table despite varying atomic masses.

Types of Isotopes

Stable Isotopes:
- Do not emit radiation and remain constant over time.
- Common in nature; there are 254 known stable isotopes.
- Example: Carbon-12 features 6 protons and 6 neutrons.
Unstable Isotopes:
- Also known as radioactive isotopes, experience spontaneous emission of radiation (α, β, γ).
- Their atomic mass and number change over time.
- Example: Carbon-14 contains 6 protons and 8 neutrons, leading to its instability.

Detection and Handling

Stable isotopes typically pose minimal hazard, and no special handling is required unless they are combined with toxic substances.
Unstable isotopes require significant precautions due to their potential to cause harm to biological tissues and necessitate special handling protocols.
Detection methods include chemical/spectroscopic analyses for stable isotopes and external detectors like gas chambers for unstable isotopes.

Applications

Stable isotopes are commonly used in research and diagnostics without risk.
Unstable isotopes have important applications in medical therapy and scientific investigations despite their risks.

Description

This quiz explores the concept of isotopes, including the definition, types, and the distinguishing features of stable and unstable isotopes. Learn about the role of isotopes in the periodic table and their significance in chemistry. Perfect for chemistry students looking to deepen their understanding of atomic structure.