A radioactive isotope has the same number of protons as its stable parent atom, but differs in its number of neutrons.
Step-by-step explanation:
- They have the same number of protons (and electrons), but different numbers of neutrons. These are called isotopes.
- Different isotopes of the same element have different masses.
- Isotopes of any given element all contain the same number of protons, so they have the same atomic number
- Radioactive isotopes are often called radioisotopes. All elements with atomic numbers greater than 83 are radioisotopes meaning that these elements have unstable nuclei and are radioactive.
- Many elements have one or more isotopes that are radioactive. These isotopes are called radioisotopes. Their nuclei are unstable, so they break down, or decay, and emit radiation.
- Neutral atoms of an element contain an equal number of protons and electrons. The number of protons determines an element's atomic number (Z) and distinguishes one element from another.