Question

Out of C-12 and C-14 isotopes of Carbon, which is of radioactive nature?

Answer 1

Step 1: Identifying the stable isotope

For the stability of an element, the neutron to proton ratio should be equal to one or nearly equal to one.

For C-12

Mass number = 12

Atomic number = Number of protons = 6

Number of neutrons = 12 - 6 = 6

So, n/p ratio $=\frac{6}{6}=1$

Hence, C-12 is a stable isotope of carbon.

For C-14

Mass number = 14

Atomic number = Number of protons = 6

Number of neutrons = 14 - 6 = 8

So, n/p ratio $=\frac{8}{6}=1.3$

Hence, C-14 is an unstable isotope of carbon.

Step 2: Identifying the radioactive isotope

Due to less stability of C - 14 as compared to C - 12 isotope. C - 14 is known as a radioactive isotope of Carbon.