An isotope is one of two or more atoms of a chemical element that have the same atomic number (number of protons) and position in the periodic table, but different numbers of neutrons, and consequently different mass numbers. This difference in neutron number leads to variations in the physical properties of isotopes, while the chemical properties typically remain very similar. Isotopes can be stable or unstable (radioactive), and their abundance in nature varies depending on the element and the isotope. The study of isotopes is crucial in fields like medicine, archaeology, and nuclear science.
Isotope meaning with examples
- Carbon-14 is a radioactive isotope used in radiocarbon dating to determine the age of ancient organic materials. This technique helps archaeologists understand past civilizations by providing a timeline of events based on the decaying rate of the isotope.
- Uranium-235 is a fissile isotope used as a fuel in nuclear reactors. Its ability to undergo nuclear fission, releasing tremendous amounts of energy, makes it a crucial component in generating electricity in certain parts of the world.
- Medical isotopes like iodine-131 are used in medical treatments such as thyroid cancer. The radioactive decay of the isotope targets cancerous cells, delivering radiation therapy with precision and relative safety.
- Hydrogen has three isotopes: protium (no neutrons), deuterium (one neutron), and tritium (two neutrons). These isotopes are the same element with different physical characteristics, enabling different uses such as nuclear fusion fuel.