Which of the following statements correctly describes isotopes?

• A. Isotopes have different chemical properties because they have different numbers of electrons.
• B. Isotopes have identical mass numbers but different atomic numbers.
• C. Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
• D. Isotopes are atoms of different elements with the same number of protons.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the definition of isotopes: Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons.
2. Understand that the number of protons (atomic number) defines the element, so isotopes must have the same atomic number.
3. Recognize that isotopes differ in their mass number because the mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons, and the neutron count varies.
4. Note that isotopes generally have very similar chemical properties because chemical behavior is primarily determined by the number of electrons, which is the same for isotopes of an element.
5. Evaluate each statement based on these points to identify the correct description of isotopes.