Question

all isotopes of an element will have the same number of (select all that apply) a neutrons b electrons c protons

Explanation:

1. Understanding Isotopes: Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons (and thus different mass numbers) but the same number of protons (which defines the element).
2. Analyzing Each Option:

• Option A (Neutrons): Isotopes differ in the number of neutrons, so this is incorrect.
• Option B (Electrons): In a neutral atom, the number of electrons equals the number of protons. Since isotopes of an element have the same number of protons, neutral isotopes will also have the same number of electrons. If the atoms are ionized, this might change, but typically, when discussing isotopes in a general sense (unless specified otherwise), we consider neutral atoms.
• Option C (Protons): The number of protons (atomic number) is what defines an element. All isotopes of an element have the same atomic number, so they have the same number of protons.

Answer:

B. Electrons, C. Protons