Neutrons & isotopes...what's the significance

[janash]

Hi,

I am studying gen chem and have a couple of questions:

1. NEUTRONS: I understand what neutrons are, but what is the significance aside from contributing to the mass of an element and differentiating isotopes?

2. ISOTOPES: Can two DIFFERENT elements with the same number of protons, but different number of neutrons be considered isotopes, or do isotopes only exist within the same element? What is the significance of isotopes? How do different isotopes change the function of the element?

Thanks to whoever might answer these questions!

[opuntia]

1- am not sure, but i think they are some how involved in emitting positrons during some kinds of radiactive decay.

2-Nop, to be an isotope you'll have to have your twin, with the same name, and everything except the physical appearance :lol: hope you do know what i mean. i'm not very sure if i know the answer to the second part of your Question. They give the element diffferent physical functions, i guess! :roll:

[charco]

the same element CANNOT have different numbers of protons

different elements CANNOT have the same number of protons

the number of protons DEFINES the element

[RobJim]

I believe that the number of neutrons has something to do with the stability of the nucleus.