What is an isotope?

Isotopes are elements that have the same number of protons as the standard example in the periodic table, but have a different amount of neutrons.An example of this is C-12, C-13 and C-14. C-12 is the standard example of carbon whereas C-13 and C-14 have added neutrons. Isotopes still chemically react in the same way, because they all have the same about of electrons. However, the higher the number on the isotope, the greater the mass of the atom.

AH
Answered by Antonia H. Chemistry tutor

3293 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why can Diesel be separated from crude oil using fractional distillation?


Complete and balance the equation: Mg(OH)2 + HCl -> ??


What are the different types of bonding?


Write a balanced chemical equation for the complete combustion of pentane.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning