3.1.6

Isotopes

Test yourself

Isotopes

Atoms of the same element always have the same number of protons (or have the same atomic number). But atoms of the same element can have different numbers of neutrons: these atoms are known as isotopes. Hydrogen has 3 different isotopes:

Illustrative background for ProtiumIllustrative background for Protium ?? "content

Protium

  • Protium is a hydrogen atom with 1 proton and 0 neutrons.
  • 99.98% of hydrogen atoms are protium.
  • It is used in hydrogen fuel cells and the production of plastics.
Illustrative background for DeuteriumIllustrative background for Deuterium ?? "content

Deuterium

  • Deuterium is a hydrogen atom with 1 proton and 1 neutron.
  • Around 0.02% of hydrogen atoms are deuterium.
  • It is used in nuclear fusion.
Illustrative background for TritiumIllustrative background for Tritium ?? "content

Tritium

  • Tritium is a hydrogen atom with 1 proton and 2 neutrons.
  • It is very rare.
  • It is used in thermonuclear fusion weapons.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

Unlock your full potential with Seneca Premium

  • Unlimited access to 10,000+ open-ended exam questions

  • Mini-mock exams based on your study history

  • Unlock 800+ premium courses & e-books

Get started with Seneca Premium