Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

What is the significance of the number of neutrons in isotopes?

1. They determine the charge of the atom

2. They define the chemical properties of the element

3. They affect the stability and mass of the isotopes

4. They have no effect on the atomic structure

The correct answer is: They affect the stability and mass of the isotopes

The significance of the number of neutrons in isotopes primarily lies in their impact on stability and mass. Isotopes of an element have the same number of protons, which defines the element, but differ in the number of neutrons. This variance affects the atomic mass of the isotopes, as each neutron adds to the total mass of the atom. Moreover, the number of neutrons directly influences the stability of the nucleus. Stable isotopes tend to have a particular ratio of neutrons to protons, while unstable isotopes may undergo radioactive decay. This decay can lead to the emission of particles and energy, significantly impacting the behavior of the isotope in various applications, such as nuclear medicine, radiometric dating, and nuclear energy. Understanding the role of neutrons is crucial in fields like chemistry and physics, as it helps explain phenomena such as isotopic abundance and the behavior of elements in different conditions.