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Isotopes: what are they? 

isotopes are different forms of the same element which have the same atomic number Z, but different mass numbers, A.

This is due to the fact that they have different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei.

 

RADIOISOTOPES, are isotopes which are versions of chemical elements which have unstable nuclei. They also emit radiation as they decay to a stable form.  

 

Ions : what are they?

The term "ion" refers to particles which are electrically charged. They are formed when atoms either lose or gain electrons.

 

They have the same electronic structures as noble gases. (figure 1)

 

 

Nuclear Symbol

The nuclear symbol incorporates the letters A and Z. The element is represented by X

 

 

A

z

X

Element symbol

Mass Number A = Z + N

(protons + neutrons)

Atomic number= number of protons

Figure 1: ion examples 

naturally occuring isotopes of Lithium

Radioisotopes of Lithium: uses

Radioisotopes of Lithium

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