Isotopes: Atoms with the same number of protons but different number of neutrons

Introduction:
Atoms are the basic building blocks of matter. They are composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons carry a positive charge, neutrons have no charge (neutral), and electrons carry a negative charge. The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number and defines the element. However, atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons, resulting in isotopes.

Isotopes:
Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. This means that isotopes have the same atomic number but different mass numbers. The mass number is the sum of the protons and neutrons in an atom. For example, carbon-12 and carbon-14 are two isotopes of carbon. Both have 6 protons, but carbon-12 has 6 neutrons while carbon-14 has 8 neutrons.

Atomic Symbol and Naming:
Isotopes are commonly denoted using the atomic symbol of the element followed by the mass number. The mass number is usually written as a superscript to the left of the atomic symbol. For example, carbon-12 is written as ^12C and carbon-14 is written as ^14C.

Properties and Uses:
Isotopes have similar chemical properties due to having the same number of protons and electrons. However, they may differ in their physical properties, such as radioactive decay rates or stability. Some isotopes are stable, while others are radioactive and undergo decay over time. Isotopes with unstable nuclei emit radiation and are used in various applications such as medical imaging (e.g., PET scans), nuclear power generation, and carbon dating.

Distinctiveness from other terms:
- Isobars: Isobars are atoms or ions that have the same mass number but different atomic numbers. In other words, they have the same number of nucleons (protons + neutrons) but different numbers of protons. Isobars belong to different elements.
- Isomers: Isomers are molecules or ions that have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. Isomers may exhibit different chemical and physical properties.
- Isotones: Isotones are atoms that have the same number of neutrons but different numbers of protons. Isotones belong to different elements.

Conclusion:
Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. They are denoted using the atomic symbol followed by the mass number. Isotopes can have similar chemical properties but may differ in their physical properties and uses. It is important to differentiate isotopes from terms like isobars, isomers, and isotones, as they represent different concepts in atomic structure and chemistry.