Neutron Chemistry Example 4

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

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Two atoms each have 17 protons. One has 18 neutrons and the other has 20 neutrons. Are they different elements or isotopes?

1
Because both atoms have 17 protons, they are the same element: chlorine.
2
The neutron counts are different, so they are different isotopes of chlorine rather than different elements.

Answer

They are isotopes of the same element.

Neutrons change the mass and isotope of an atom, but not its element identity. Element identity is controlled by proton number.

About Neutron

A neutral subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom that has no electric charge but contributes to the atom's mass.

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