Question

Define Isotopes and Isobars. What are the characteristics of both? Write any 4 uses.

Answer 1

Those atoms which have same atomic number but different atomic mass is called isotopes. E.g. ₁H¹, ₁H², ₁H³

Those atoms which have same atomic mass but different atomic number is called isobars. E.g. ₂₀Ca⁴⁰, ₁₈Ar⁴⁰

Properties of isotopes:

1. They possess same chemical properties.
2. They have different physical properties.
3. Their radioactive properties can be different.
4. They are kept at the same place in the periodic table.

Properties of Isobars:

1. Their atomic masses are nearly equal.
2. They possess different chemical and physical properties.
3. They take different places in the periodic table.
4. They possess different radioactive properties.

Application:

1. - Isotopes are used in the kinetic study of reaction mechanism
2. - C-14 isotopes are used in finding the age of fossils.
3. - It is used widely in spectroscopy for the study of metal ions
4. - Isotopes are also used to study the plant metabolic functions.