Understanding the Nuclide: Definition and Differences with Isotopes

[shrumeo]

definition of "nuclide"

I apologize to all the hardened physicists out there. I have a trivial question. What is the exact definition of the term "nuclide."

The problem is that I see it bouced around and used different ways that seem to conflict. Also, I see it being used synonymously as other words.

The way I see it used most often makes me think that it is simply a synonym for "isotope." I also get the impression that the only difference between the two is sort of grammatical. For instance you would say "Fluorine-19 is the only known isotope of that element. It is its only nuclide."

The only difference here is that "isotope" is followed by "of."

Please help me. I know this sounds stupid but knowing the precise definition might help me grade some freshman chemistry exams.

 

[mathman]

Isotopes refer to varieties of a given element. Nuclides refer to anything made up of nucleons (protons or neutrons).

 

[shrumeo]

Then why is the term necessary? Aren't things made of nucleons called nuclei?

 

[mathman]

It is somewhat of a referential difference. A nuclide is discussed by itself, while a nucleus is discussed in reference to an atom. Both terms do refer to the same things.