Chapter 9, Problem 9.37QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Number of protons and neutrons present in three isotopes of hydrogen has to be given.

Concept Introduction:

Isotopes are the ones that have same atomic number but different mass number.  The difference in mass number is due to the number of neutrons.

Nucleus of an atom is designated using nuclear symbol.  These are analogous to atomic symbol but the difference is that nuclear symbol consists of the element symbol along with atomic number and mass number.

Atomic number represents the number of protons.  Mass number represents the sum of protons and neutrons.  Therefore, the difference between mass number and atomic number gives that number of neutrons present in the nucleus.