Question

Consider the isotopes of carbon, i.e., C-12, C-13, C-14 would you place them in the same or different slots in the periodic table? Give reason.

Answer 1

• The isotopes differ in mass number but have the same atomic number. Because the modern periodic table is based on the atomic number of the elements, isotopes cannot be placed in various spaces.
• Hence, carbon isotopes should be assigned to the same slot. Since C-12, C-13, and C-14 all have the same atomic number, they belong to the IVA or 14th group and the 2nd period.