Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have ________.
A)different atomic numbers
B)the same atomic numbers but different numbers of protons
C)the same atomic numbers but different numbers of electrons
D)the same atomic number but different numbers of neutrons
E)the same atomic mass but different numbers of protons

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Isotopes are defined as having the same number of protons (atomic number) but different numbers of neutrons, which affects their atomic mass. Thus, option D is the correct choice. Option A is incorrect because that would mean they are not the same element. Option B is incorrect because the number of protons determines the element, while the number of neutrons can vary in isotopes. Option C is incorrect because electrons also do not affect the identity of the element. Option E is incorrect because isotopes can have different atomic masses.

Isotopes Are Atoms of the Same Element That Have ________