Exploring Radioactive Isotopes and Their Properties

This lesson explores why some isotopes are radioactive, focusing on the role of neutrons as nuclear glue. It explains how isotopes differ in neutron numbers, using hydrogen isotopes as examples. The lesson discusses stability, radioactive decay, and the applications of radioisotopes in medicine and chemistry. It concludes with a summary of key points about isotopes and their significance in science.

What determines the identity and chemical properties of an atom?

• The atomic mass

• The number of protons

• The number of electrons

• The number of neutrons

What role do neutrons play in the nucleus of an atom?

• They determine the atomic number

• They repel protons

• They provide nuclear glue

• They are responsible for chemical reactions

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Which isotope of hydrogen is the heaviest?

• Protium

• Tritium

• Deuterium

• Hydrogen-1

What happens when there are too many or too few neutrons in a nucleus?

• The atom becomes chemically inert

• The nucleus becomes smaller

• The nucleus becomes unstable

• The atom gains electrons

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What is the process called when an unstable nucleus rearranges itself?

• Radioactive decay

• Chemical reaction

• Nuclear fusion

• Nuclear fission

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What is another name for radioactive isotopes?

• Stable isotopes

• Radioisotopes

• Neutrons

• Protons

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How are radioisotopes used in medicine?

• To enhance the taste of food

• To trace body chemistry or blood flow

• To increase the strength of bones

• To improve vision

What is a medical tracer?

• A device to measure heart rate

• A substance to trace body chemistry

• A tool for surgery

• A type of medicine

How can chemists use radioisotopes?

• To change the color of substances

• To follow reaction sequences

• To speed up reactions

• To cool down reactions

What is one of the key points about isotopes?

• All isotopes are radioactive

• Isotopes of the same element have different chemical properties

• Some isotopes are stable

• Isotopes cannot be used in medicine

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