THE STABILITY OF ISOTOPES

1 mark · Easy

Which statement best explains why neutrons are important for the stability of a nucleus?

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Correct option: They help balance the repulsive force between protons in the nucleus.

Common mistakes: They provide extra positive charge to hold protons together.; They make the atom lighter.; They change the chemical properties of the element.

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Marking points

A1 · 1 mark · Chooses the correct explanation: They help balance the repulsive force between protons in the nucleus.

Worked solution

Neutrons are important for stability because they help offset the repulsive electric forces between protons, keeping the nucleus together.