EasyChemistryHigh School (9–10)GeneralStructure of the Atom › Isotopes and IsobarsNumericalBoard Exam
Carbon has the atomic number 6. Find the number of neutrons in carbon-12, carbon-13 and carbon-14…
Contributed by StemPy LabTry it on paper first. A hint, the key idea and the worked solution are here when you need them.
Carbon has the atomic number .
- Find the number of neutrons in carbon-12, carbon-13 and carbon-14.
- Which of the three is radioactive, and what is it used for?
Need a reminder? The key ideaShow
Isotopes are atoms of the same element, with the same and a different . They have the same electrons, so the same chemical properties. Isobars are atoms of different elements with the same and a different . The mass of a molecule is the sum of the masses of its atoms.
The worked solution
Have you tried it?
Work it out on paper first. It is fine to get stuck or make a mistake: that is how we learn. When you are ready, go through the solution one step at a time, and check each step against your own.
Step 1. Carbon-12. neutrons.
Step 2. Carbon-13. neutrons.
Step 3. Carbon-14. neutrons.
Step 4. (b) Carbon-14 is radioactive. It is used to find the age of old wood, bone and cloth.
Answer: (a) , and . (b) carbon-14, for dating old remains.
Discussion (0)
Log in to join the discussion.
Loading…