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Isotopes
Isotopes
are
atoms
of
the
same
element
with
the
same
number
of
protons
and
electrons
but
different
number
of
neutrons.
In
other
words,
they
have
the
same
atomic
number
but
different
mass
number.
Since
the
number
and
arrangement
of
electrons
in
all
isotopes
of
an
element
are
identical,
then
all
isotopes
of
that
element
have
the
same
chemical
properties.
Kevin
Small
www.cxctutor.org
or
www.cxctutor.com
Radioactive
Isotopes
The
atoms
of
some
isotopes
are
unstable
and
they
split
up
spontaneously
to
form
smaller
atoms.
As
the
nucleus
splits,
it
also
releases
energy
in
the
form
of
radiation.
Isotopes
which
do
this
are
called
radioisotopes
and
they
are
said
to
be
radioactive.
1. (alpha)
α-‐particles:
these
are
helium
nuclei
with
a
charge
of
+2.
2. (beta)
β-‐particles:
these
are
electrons
with
a
charge
of
-‐1.
3. (gamma)
ϒ-‐rays:
this
is
high
energy
electromagnetic
radiation.
Kevin
Small
www.cxctutor.org
or
www.cxctutor.com
Kevin
Small
www.cxctutor.org
or
www.cxctutor.com