In the carbon isotope discussion, how many protons/electrons do Carbon-12, Carbon-13, and Carbon-14 share?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Discover the NOVA Hunting the Elements Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions. Prepare effectively for your assessment!

Multiple Choice

In the carbon isotope discussion, how many protons/electrons do Carbon-12, Carbon-13, and Carbon-14 share?

Explanation:
Protons determine the identity of the element, and in a neutral atom the number of electrons equals the number of protons. Isotopes differ only in the number of neutrons, not in protons. Carbon always has 6 protons, so each of Carbon-12, Carbon-13, and Carbon-14 has 6 protons and, if neutral, 6 electrons. The numbers 12, 13, and 14 refer to the total mass (protons plus neutrons), not the count of protons/electrons. Therefore, they all share 6 protons and 6 electrons.

Protons determine the identity of the element, and in a neutral atom the number of electrons equals the number of protons. Isotopes differ only in the number of neutrons, not in protons. Carbon always has 6 protons, so each of Carbon-12, Carbon-13, and Carbon-14 has 6 protons and, if neutral, 6 electrons. The numbers 12, 13, and 14 refer to the total mass (protons plus neutrons), not the count of protons/electrons. Therefore, they all share 6 protons and 6 electrons.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy