Does an Atom's Type dictate the Protons and Neutrons?

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An atom's type is determined by the number of protons it contains, which defines the element, while the specific isotope of that element is defined by the total number of nucleons, which includes both protons and neutrons. The discussion also briefly touches on the existence of exotic matter, such as antimatter and muonic atoms, as interesting topics beyond isotopes.
Zoey
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Hi,

Does an Atom's Type have to do with the number of protons and neutrons it has? Or are they completely unrelated? Just curious.

Thanks :)
 
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Zoey said:
Hi,

Does an Atom's Type have to do with the number of protons and neutrons it has? Or are they completely unrelated? Just curious.

Thanks :)
What do you mean by type? The element is determined by the number of protons (i.e. the nuclear charge), and the particular isotope of an element is determined by the sum of the number neutrons and protons (or the total number of nucleons).
 
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Vagn said:
What do you mean by type? The element is determined by the number of protons (i.e. the nuclear charge), and the particular isotope of an element is determined by the sum of the number neutrons and protons (or the total number of nucleons).
I just meant like the chemical element, so you answered my question. Thanks! :smile:
 
Beside isotopes, you may also find antimatter or muonic atoms (exotic matter), for example, a lot more interesting.
 
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Pepper Mint said:
Beside isotopes, you may also find antimatter or muonic atoms (exotic matter), for example, a lot more interesting.
Okay, cool! Good to know and thanks :smile:
 
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