Isotopes

Question 1

What defines isotopes?

Answer 1

atoms with same number of protons but different number of neutrons, chemically alike but varying in atomic mass numbers

Question 2

What is the atomic mass of an element?

Answer 2

the no. protons and no. neutrons

Question 3

what is isotopic fractionation?

Answer 3

the physical separation of isotopes into different reservoirs

Question 4

What type of isotope evaporates more easily?

Answer 4

lighter isotopes

Question 5

Name the 3 different types of isotopic fractionation?

Answer 5

• evaporation
• kinetic
• equilbrium

Question 6

whats the link between the weight of isotopes and bonds?(how does mass difference affect behaviour)

Answer 6

Light isotopes form weaker bonds so heavy isotopes form stronger bonds

Question 7

Whats the difference between stable and unstable isotopes?

Answer 7

stable isotopes do not undergo radioactive decay whereas unstable do

Question 8

What is fractionation dependant on?

Answer 8

temperature

Question 9

What is an example of kinetic fractionation?

Answer 9

photosynthesis

Question 10

which type of isotope is removed more quickly?

Answer 10

heavy isotopes condensates and are removed more quickly