If different atoms have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons what are they called?

1 Answer
Suren Abreu
Oct 17, 2016

Such atoms are called isotopes of each other.

Explanation:

Atoms which have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons in the nucleus are known as isotopes.

Because of the difference in the number of neutrons, they will have the same atomic number, but varying atomic mass (or mass number).

Examples are: #""^12C#, #""^13C#, and #""^14C#, both of which have 6 protons but 6, 7, or 8 neutrons, making them isotopes of each other.

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