❓ why
Why are isotopes of the same element chemically similar?
Quick Answer
Isotopes have the same number of protons and electrons, so they have nearly the same chemistry. They mainly differ in neutron number and mass.
The Full Story
Chemistry depends mostly on electrons, especially those in the outer shell. Isotopes of an element have the same atomic number, meaning the same number of protons and, in a neutral atom, the same number of electrons. Because their electron arrangements are almost identical, isotopes behave similarly in reactions. The main difference is nuclear, not chemical: isotopes can have different stability and different masses.
Key Facts
1.Isotopes share the same atomic number
2.They differ in neutron number
3.Chemical behavior is driven mainly by electrons
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Same element, different mass: why isotopes act almost alike."
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