Chem-Isotopes

isotopes

Atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different atomic masses.

radioisotopes

isotopes that emit radiation as they decay. (they split because of instability)

isotopy

the occurrence of atoms of a single element that have the same number of protons in their nuclei

relative atomic mass

The weighted average of the masses of an element's isotopes, (amu). It reflects the abundance of each isotope in a naturally occurring sample.

a particles

Helium nuclei consisting of two protons and two neutrons, emitted during radioactive decay.

B particles

Electrons or positrons emitted during beta decay.

y-rays

High-energy electromagnetic radiation emitted during radioactive decay, often alongside alpha and beta decay.

cobalt-60

A radioisotope that emits gamma rays and beta particles, used in cancer treatment and industry.

iodine-131

A radioisotope that emits gamma rays and beta particles, used in cancer treatment and industry.

carbon-14

A radioisotope of carbon that emits beta particles and is used in radiocarbon dating to determine the age of organic materials.