Question

an isotope contains 8 protons and 10 neutrons. construct the symbol for the isotope.

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the element

The number of protons is the atomic number (\(Z\)). Since there are 8 protons, the atomic number \(Z = 8\), which corresponds to oxygen (O).

Step2: Calculate the mass number

The mass number (\(A\)) is the sum of protons and neutrons. So \(A=8 + 10=18\).

Step3: Construct the isotope symbol

The isotope symbol is written as \(\ce{^{A}_{Z}X}\), where \(X\) is the element symbol. Substituting the values, we get \(\ce{^{18}_{8}O}\).

Answer:

\(\ce{^{18}_{8}O}\)