How to write an isotope symbol?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the method or guidelines on how to correctly write an isotope symbol in scientific notation. It typically involves indicating the element's symbol along with the mass number and atomic number.
Answer
A superscript mass number and a subscript atomic number to the left of the element symbol.
The isotope symbol is written with the mass number as a superscript to the left of the element symbol, and the atomic number as a subscript to the left of the element symbol.
Answer for screen readers
The isotope symbol is written with the mass number as a superscript to the left of the element symbol, and the atomic number as a subscript to the left of the element symbol.
More Information
A common way to describe isotopes in text is by writing the element name followed by a hyphen and the mass number, such as Carbon-14 or C-14.
Tips
Ensure placement of superscript and subscript is correct to avoid confusion between the mass number and the atomic number.
Sources
- Isotope Notation - preparatorychemistry.com
- Isotopes II - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- Isotope Notation - Chemistry - Socratic - socratic.org
