Question 1: Define isotopes and explain how they differ from each other.

Answer: Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. They differ in their atomic mass and physical properties.

Question 2: Why do isotopes of the same element have similar chemical properties?

Answer: Because they have the same number of electrons and protons, which determine chemical behavior.

Question 1: Chlorine has two main isotopes: Cl-35 and Cl-37. If 75.76% of chlorine atoms are Cl-35 and 24.24% are Cl-37, calculate the average atomic mass of chlorine.

Answer: Approximately 35.45 amu

Question 2: Interpret the data: Why does chlorine have an atomic mass that is not a whole number?

Answer: Because it is a weighted average of the masses of its isotopes based on their natural abundance.

Question 1: Given an element has 3 isotopes: Isotope A (mass = 10 amu, abundance = 20%), Isotope B (mass = 11 amu, abundance = 50%), and Isotope C (mass = 12 amu, abundance = 30%), calculate its average atomic mass.

Answer: Approximately 11.1 amu

Question 2: If an isotope of an element has 18 protons and 20 neutrons, what is its atomic mass number?

Answer: 38

Question 1: Describe a simple experimental method to determine the isotopic composition of an element in a laboratory setting.

Answer: Using mass spectrometry to separate isotopes based on their mass and analyze their relative abundances.

Question 2: List two safety precautions when handling radioactive isotopes in experiments.

Answer: Wear protective clothing and use lead shielding to prevent radiation exposure.

Question 1: Describe how isotopes are used in medical diagnosis or treatment.

Answer: Radioisotopes are used in medical imaging, such as PET scans, and in radiation therapy to treat cancer.

Question 2: Identify an industry where isotopic analysis is crucial and explain why.

Answer: In archaeology, isotopic analysis helps determine the age of artifacts through radiocarbon dating.