Question

problem 4: isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different masses (like u238 & u235). this is due adding or removing neutrons. using the simulation, create two isotopes of the same element by changing the number of neutrons in an atom of that element. in the space to the right, identify your first isotope: 1. element name 2. # of protons 3. # of electrons 4. # of neutrons 5. what is the mass?

Explanation:

Step1: Choose an element

Let's choose carbon.

Step2: Recall properties of carbon - 12

Carbon - 12 has 6 protons. Since atoms are neutral, it has 6 electrons. For carbon - 12, the number of neutrons is 6 (mass number - number of protons, 12 - 6 = 6). The mass number is 12.

Step3: Create an isotope (carbon - 14)

Carbon - 14 is an isotope of carbon. It has 6 protons (same as carbon - 12 as they are the same element). It has 6 electrons to maintain neutrality. The number of neutrons is 8 (14 - 6 = 8). The mass number is 14.

For the first isotope (carbon - 12):

1. Element name: Carbon
2. # of protons: 6
3. # of electrons: 6
4. # of neutrons: 6
5. What is the MASS?: 12

Answer:

1. Carbon
2. 6
3. 6
4. 6
5. 12