Chapter 3, Problem 23A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The meaning of an element consisting of several isotopes needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The smallest unit of matter is atom. It consists of three subatomic particles neutrons protons, and electrons.

The isotope contains different numbers of neutron and same number of protons so the atomic mass of the isotope is different.

Answer to Problem 23A

An atom having different number of neutrons and same number protons in its nucleus is termed as isotopes of the element.

Explanation of Solution

The number of protons in an atom is called the atomic number. The addition of the number of protons and neutrons, is equal to the mass number. When the numbers of neutrons are different the mass number of element is changes but atomic number remains unchanged that consider as a isotope of the element.

MASS NUMBER = NUMBER OF PROPTONS + NUMBER OF NEUTRONS.

Conclusion

The number of neutron is different for isotope of an element, which shows the difference in mass number and same atomic numbers for an element.