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isotopes
1. each of two or more forms of the same element that contain equal
numbers of protons but different numbers of neutrons in their nuclei, and
hence differ in relative atomic mass but not in chemical properties; in
particular, a radioactive form of an element.
Atoms and elements are made of protons, neutrons and electrons. The nucleus is made of protons and
neutrons, and the electrons surround the nucleus, as shown in the illustration below. The sum of the
number of protons and the number of neutrons is equal to the atomic mass.