Chapter 1: Same Atomic Number

Vocabulary flashcards focusing on atomic number, isotopes, carbon isotopes, and mass number from Chapter 1.

Atomic number

The number of protons in an atom; in a neutral atom it also equals the number of electrons; this value is shown on the periodic table.

Isotopes

Atoms of the same element that have the same atomic number but different mass numbers (e.g., carbon-12 and carbon-13).

Carbon

An element with atomic number 6; can form isotopes such as carbon-12 and carbon-13.

Carbon-12

An isotope of carbon with mass number 12; has atomic number 6; same protons as other carbon isotopes but a different mass number.

Carbon-13

An isotope of carbon with mass number 13; has atomic number 6; same protons as other carbon isotopes but a different mass number.

Mass number

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus; used to distinguish isotopes (e.g., 12 vs 13 for carbon).