Isotópoknak

Isotópoknak refers to isotopes in Hungarian. Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons. All atoms of a given element have the same number of protons, which defines the element. However, the number of neutrons in the nucleus can vary. This variation in neutron number leads to isotopes having different mass numbers. The mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

For example, hydrogen has three common isotopes: protium, deuterium, and tritium. Protium has one proton and no neutrons, making its mass number 1. Deuterium has one proton and one neutron, with a mass number of 2. Tritium has one proton and two neutrons, resulting in a mass number of 3. Despite their different masses, all isotopes of an element exhibit very similar chemical properties because these are primarily determined by the number of electrons, which is equal to the number of protons in a neutral atom.

Some isotopes are stable, meaning they do not spontaneously decay. Others are unstable, known as radioactive isotopes, and undergo radioactive decay, emitting particles or energy to transform into a different nucleus. The study and applications of isotopes are diverse, ranging from nuclear medicine and carbon dating to nuclear power and materials science. The term "isotópoknak" in Hungarian directly translates to "to isotopes" or "for isotopes," implying a context where isotopes are being discussed, used, or are the subject of an action.