Question

\( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^{10}_6{C} \) are ________, whereas \( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^8_5{B} \) are _______

• A. isotopes; isomers
• B. isomers; isotopes
• C. isotopes; isotones
• D. isotones; isotopes

Hint:

Isotopes have the same atomic number but different mass numbers, while isotones have the same number of neutrons but different atomic numbers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The terms used in nuclear chemistry refer to different properties of atoms and isotopes.
Step 1: Understanding isotopes.
Isotopes are atoms of the same element (same atomic number) but with different numbers of neutrons, thus giving them different mass numbers. For example, \( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^{10}_6{C} \) are isotopes because they belong to the same element (carbon) but have different numbers of neutrons.
Step 2: Understanding isotones.
Isotones are atoms that have the same number of neutrons but different numbers of protons. Thus, \( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^8_5{B} \) are isotones because they have the same number of neutrons (both have 6 neutrons) but different atomic numbers (carbon has 6 protons and boron has 5 protons).
Step 3: Conclusion.
- \( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^{10}_6{C} \) are isotopes, as they belong to the same element but have different numbers of neutrons.
- \( ^9_6{C} \) and \( ^8_5{B} \) are isotones, as they have the same number of neutrons but different atomic numbers.
Thus, the correct answer is (C).