Question

How is an isotope different to an atom?

Answer 1

hi mate here is ur answer

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Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons but the same number of protons and electrons. The difference in the number of neutrons between the various isotopes of an element means that the various isotopes have different masses.

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Answer 2

Isotopes are exceptions!. while  Atom is generalized

Explanation:

Atoms and isotopes are different i.e

Atom:- It is the smallest thing of an element. A nucleus that has neutrons and  protons which possesses some electrons revolving around it in definite orbits... that is  terms as one atom!

Each element have a generalized atom those have a definite number of protons,electrons and  nucleus.

The number of protons (or even electrons as the number of protons is equal to the number of electrons) are called atomic number. The total number of protons and neutrons is called atomic mass.

Now protons are positively charged while electrons are negatively charged while neutrons carry charge.

What if there are more neutrons than the generalized ones? They are called isotopes.

For example, A hydrogen atom has one proton and one electron  (no neutrons).

• One isotope of hydrogen termed as deutorium has one proton , one electron and one neutron.

• Another isotope of hydrogen termed tritium has one proton, two neutrons and one electron. Tritium is radioactive.

Hence, isotopes are exceptions!........while atom is generalized...