An isotope is two or more forms of the same element that contain equal numbers of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei. An ion is atom or molecule with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons. Usually, isotopes are radioactive and only there neutrons differ. Ions are molecules that gain or lose electrons to fill their outer energy level.
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Isotopes are different forms of the same element with the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different atomic masses. Ions are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons, giving them a positive or negative charge.
Radioisotope and radionuclide are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. A radioisotope is a type of isotope that emits radiation, while a radionuclide is an atomic nucleus that is unstable and emits radiation. In essence, all radioisotopes are radionuclides, but not all radionuclides are necessarily radioisotopes.
The relationship between salts and ions shows that while all salts are made up of ions, not all ions form salts. Salts are compounds made of positively and negatively charged ions that are held together by ionic bonds. However, some ions exist independently and do not combine with other ions to form salts. This distinction highlights the difference between salts, which are specific compounds, and ions, which are individual charged particles.
Alkaline substances have a pH above 7, acidic substances have a pH below 7, and neutral substances have a pH of 7. The difference lies in the concentration of hydrogen ions: alkaline substances have fewer hydrogen ions, acidic substances have more hydrogen ions, and neutral substances have an equal amount of hydrogen ions and hydroxide ions.
A strong acid completely dissociates in water to release H+ ions, resulting in a high concentration of H+ ions in solution. A weak acid only partially dissociates in water, leading to a lower concentration of H+ ions in solution. This difference in dissociation behavior affects the acidity of the solution and the pH level.
Hydroxide ions (OH-) are negatively charged ions consisting of one oxygen and one hydrogen atom, and are found in basic solutions. Hydronium ions (H3O+) are positively charged ions formed when a water molecule gains a hydrogen ion, and are found in acidic solutions.