Atomic Structure and Isotopes revision note

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Atomic Structure

Atomic Orbital = region of space where there is a high probability of finding an electron

An atomic orbital holds a maximum of 2 electrons

1s 2s 2p 3s 3p 4s 3d 4p .....

Isotopes

Identical chemical properties (due to same electron arrangement)

Slightly different physical properties (masses & rates of diffusion)

Same proton number but different neutron number

Uses of isotopes:

Some are radioactive and a very useful:

Iodine-131 isotope is radioactive and the radiation released helps to destroy cancerous thyroid cells.

Carbon-14 is radioactive and is used in carbon dating