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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Isotopes and Isobars?

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Isotopes and isobars are two types of atomic species that differ in their atomic and mass numbers. Here are the key differences between them:

  • Isotopes are atoms of the same element, having the same atomic number but different mass numbers. They have the same number of protons and electrons, resulting in similar chemical properties. Examples of isotopes include hydrogen with 1H, 2H, and 3H isotopes.
  • Isobars are atoms of different elements, having different atomic numbers but the same mass number. They have different numbers of protons and neutrons, resulting in different chemical properties. Examples of isobars include carbon and nitrogen with the same mass number 14, and argon and calcium with the same mass number 40.

In summary, isotopes are atoms of the same element with different mass numbers, while isobars are atoms of different elements with the same mass number. Isotopes have similar chemical properties, whereas isobars have different chemical properties.

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  • What is the Difference Between Isotopes and Isobars?
  • Comparative Table: Isotopes vs Isobars

    • Comparative Table: Isotopes vs Isobars

    Here is a table comparing the differences between isotopes and isobars:

    Property Isotopes Isobars
    Definition Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different mass numbers. Isobars are atoms of different elements with the same mass number.
    Atomic Number The atomic number is the same for all isotopes of an element. The atomic number is different for each isobar, but they have the same mass number.
    Chemical Properties Isotopes have the same chemical properties as they belong to the same element. Isobars have different chemical properties as they are atoms of different elements.
    Examples Hydrogen has three isotopes: 1H, 2H, and 3H. Carbon and nitrogen have the same mass number 14.

    In summary, isotopes are atoms of the same element with different mass numbers, while isobars are atoms of different elements with the same mass number. Isotopes have the same atomic number and similar chemical properties, whereas isobars have different atomic numbers and distinct chemical properties.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.