This key facts covers Isotopes within Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics. Revise Atomic Structure in Atomic Structure for GCSE Physics with 16 exam-style questions and 25 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 5 of 12 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 5 of 12
Practice
16 questions
Recall
25 flashcards
🔄 Isotopes
Definition: Isotopes are atoms of the same element (same number of protons) with different numbers of neutrons.
Examples — Carbon isotopes:
| Isotope | Protons | Neutrons | Stable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon-12 | 6 | 6 | Yes (99%) |
| Carbon-13 | 6 | 7 | Yes (1%) |
| Carbon-14 | 6 | 8 | No (radioactive) |
Key points:
- Same chemical properties (same electrons)
- Different physical properties (different mass)
- Some isotopes are radioactive (unstable nucleus)
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Atomic Structure. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Atomic Structure
What does the atomic number of an element tell you?
Describe the structure of an atom. Include the location and charge of the three main subatomic particles.
Quick Recall Flashcards
16 questions on Atomic Structure — practise free
Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 25 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.
Try PrepWise Free