ATI TEAS Science Practice Test Related

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What is an isotope? For any given element, it is an atom with which of the following?

  • A. a different atomic number
  • B. a different number of protons
  • C. a different number of electrons
  • D. a different mass number
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An isotope of an element is an atom with a different number of neutrons, resulting in a different mass number. Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons (which determines the element's identity) but differ in the number of neutrons, leading to variations in mass numbers. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of electrons.