1. Isotopes & Radioisotopes Section 3.6

2. What is an isotope? Two or more forms of an element. Each form has the same number of protons but a different number of neutrons. Therefore, each form has a different atomic mass. For example: 35 Cl 17 37 Cl 17 P = 17; N = 18 P = 17; N = 20 Cl-35Cl-37

3. Isotopes of the Same Element Have the same physical and chemical properties. However, some isotopes are unstable, or radioactive. These isotopes are called radioisotopes.

4. Radioisotopes The instability causes the nucleus to break apart and eject very-high-energy particles into its surroundings. This energy can be both beneficial and harmful.

5. The types of high-energy particles: Alpha particles (α): positive particles Beta particles (β): high-energy electrons Gamma particles (γ): the most dangerous

6. Harmful Effects of Radioisotopes Can damage living tissue and DNA Cancer Birth defects

7. Beneficial Effects of Radioisotopes Uranium-235: Nuclear power Carbon-14: Fossil dating Americium-241: Smoke detectors Cobalt-60: Cancer treatment (radiation)

8. Homework Study!!! (Parts of the atom; B-R diagrams) Read p.97 “Applications of Radioisotopes” (Figures included) Answer p.97 (1-4)