Understanding Isotopes and Atomic Structure

What defines an isotope of an element?

• Same number of neutrons, different protons

• Same number of protons, different neutrons

• Same number of protons and neutrons

• Different number of protons and neutrons

How do geologists use isotopes?

• To determine the chemical composition of rocks

• To calculate the age of ancient objects

• To find the location of ancient artifacts

• To predict future geological events

What does the atomic number of an element represent?

• The total number of neutrons

• The mass of the atom

• The total number of electrons

• The number of protons in the nucleus

How can you calculate the number of neutrons in an atom?

• Add the atomic number to the mass number

• Divide the mass number by the atomic number

• Subtract the atomic number from the mass number

• Multiply the atomic number by the mass number

What is the difference in neutron count between carbon-12 and carbon-14?

• Carbon-12 has two more neutrons

• Carbon-14 has two more neutrons

• They have the same number of neutrons

• Carbon-14 has four more neutrons