Chemistry
Why do 3517Cl and 3717Cl have the same chemical properties? In what respect do these atoms differ?
Answer
Isotopes have the same atomic number i.e., the same number of electrons and protons and hence the same electronic configuration. Chemical properties are determined by the electronic configuration of an atom. Thus, the isotopes of an element are chemically alike.
Isotopes have different mass numbers [A] due to different number of neutrons. 3517Cl has 18 neutrons whereas 3717Cl has 20 neutrons. Due to different atomic masses these atoms differ in their physical properties like density, melting point, boiling point, etc.
Related Questions
What are nucleons? How many nucleons are present in phosphorus? Draw its structure.
What are isotopes? With reference to which fundamental particle do isotopes differ ? Give two uses of isotopes.
Explain fractional atomic mass. What is the fractional mass of chlorine?
(a) What is meant by 'atomic number of an element'?
(b) Complete the table given below:
No of protons No of electrons No of neutrons Atomic number Mass number 3517Cl 3717Cl (c) Write down the electronic configuration of
(i) Chlorine atom
(ii) Chloride ion