Neutral isotopes of atom, state possible value for A & Z?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of neutral isotopes of radium, specifically focusing on the nucleon number (A) and proton number (Z). Participants explore the implications of the mark scheme indicating a range for the nucleon number and seek clarification on the representation of isotopes.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the representation of a neutral radium isotope with specific nucleon (A) and proton (Z) numbers, expressing confusion about the nucleon number being shown as 228 ± 10 in the mark scheme.
  • Another participant questions where the mark scheme shows the range of 228 ± 10, indicating a need for clarification on the source of this information.
  • A third participant provides links to the exam paper and mark scheme, clarifying that their inquiry is for revision purposes rather than homework.
  • A fourth participant notes that exam questions are treated similarly to homework on the forum and suggests re-posting in the appropriate section.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the nucleon number range or the appropriateness of the post in the current forum. There is a mix of confusion and procedural disagreement regarding the posting guidelines.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes references to specific mark schemes and exam questions, but the rationale behind the ± 10 range for the nucleon number remains unclear and unresolved.

CAH
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A neutral atom of radium isotope may be represented by:
228
Ra (88 proton number, 228 nucleon number).
88

A
Ra (A:nucleon number, Z: proton number).
Z
...Is a neutral atom of different isotope of radium. State a possible value for A and for Z.

I know that neutral means the number of protons will be the same as electrons so net charge=0 but I am confused as to why (in the mark scheme) it shows: 228 ± 10.
I know the proton number will stay the same, but why is the nucleon number only plus or minus 10??

Thanks
 
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CAH said:
Im confused as to why (in the mark scheme) it shows: 228 ± 10.

Where does it show 228 ± 10?

(Also, if this is a homework question, it should be posted in the appropriate homework forum and the homework template should be used. If it isn't, a reference for the source material you are getting this from would be helpful.)
 
Question 2 on this paper: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/subjects/AQA-PHYA1-W-QP-JAN11.PDF
Mark scheme: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/subjects/AQA-PHYA1-W-MS-JAN11.PDF
This is just revision for my exams, not homework.

Thanks
 
CAH said:
This is just revision for my exams, not homework.

Exam questions are treated the same as homework here on PF. I have closed this thread; please re-post a new thread in the homework forum with the template filled out.
 

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