Isótopa

Isótopo is a term used in chemistry and physics to refer to different forms of the same chemical element. These variations, known as isotopes, have the same number of protons in their atomic nucleus, which defines the element itself. However, isotopes of an element differ in the number of neutrons present in their nucleus.

The number of protons in an atom is called its atomic number and is unique to each element. For example, all carbon atoms have six protons. Isotopes of carbon, such as carbon-12 and carbon-14, both have six protons. The difference lies in their neutron count. Carbon-12 has six neutrons, while carbon-14 has eight neutrons. This difference in neutron number affects the mass number of the isotope, which is the sum of protons and neutrons.

Isotopes can have varying properties. Most notably, their stability can differ. Some isotopes are stable, meaning their nucleus does not decay over time. Others are unstable or radioactive, and they undergo radioactive decay, emitting particles and energy to transform into a more stable form. This radioactive property is utilized in various applications, including medical imaging, carbon dating, and nuclear power generation. The relative abundance of different isotopes of an element in nature can vary, and this ratio is often used for identification and analysis.