Question

atom a and atom b have the same number of protons, but they do not have the same number of neutrons. which statement describes these atoms? atom a and atom b are isotopes of the same element. atom a and atom b are different elements. atom a and atom b have different atomic numbers. atom a and atom b have the same mass number.

Explanation:

• Isotopes: Atoms of the same element with the same number of protons (same atomic number) but different numbers of neutrons (different mass numbers).
• Atomic number: Defined by the number of protons. Since both atoms have the same number of protons, they have the same atomic number and are the same element.
• Mass number: Calculated as \(protons + neutrons\). Different numbers of neutrons mean different mass numbers.

Answer:

Atom A and Atom B are isotopes of the same element.