Atoms of the same element that differ only in their number of neutrons are called: ions water compounds isotopes nonpolar
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Isotopes
✅ Explanation:
Atoms of the same element always have the same number of protons in their nuclei — this defines what element they are. For example, all carbon atoms have 6 protons. However, the number of neutrons can vary between atoms of the same element. When this happens, we call these atoms isotopes.
🔬 What Are Isotopes?
An isotope is a version of an element that has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. Because neutrons are neutral (have no charge), changing the number of neutrons affects the mass of the atom but not its charge.
For example:
- Carbon-12 has 6 protons and 6 neutrons.
- Carbon-14 has 6 protons and 8 neutrons.
Both are carbon because they have 6 protons, but they are different isotopes due to their different numbers of neutrons.
⚖ Why It Matters:
- Physical Properties: Isotopes often behave the same chemically (since chemistry depends on electrons), but their physical properties, like mass and stability, can differ.
- Radioactivity: Some isotopes are unstable and radioactive, like carbon-14, which is used in carbon dating to estimate the age of fossils and archaeological finds.
- Medical Uses: Radioactive isotopes are also used in medical imaging and treatments, such as iodine-131 for thyroid conditions.
❌ Why the Other Choices Are Incorrect:
- Ions: These are atoms that have gained or lost electrons, not neutrons.
- Water: A compound made of hydrogen and oxygen, not a type of atom.
- Compounds: Substances made of two or more different atoms bonded together.
- Nonpolar: A term describing molecules with no charge separation, not atoms.
📌 Summary:
Isotopes are atoms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. They are critical in science and medicine due to their unique nuclear properties.