Definition

A type of atom that has the same number of neutrons as another atom but a different number of protons, resulting in different chemical properties.

Example

Carbon-14 and Carbon-12 are examples of isotones, as they have the same number of neutrons but different numbers of protons.

Conversation

I was reading about different atomic structures in class today.

Oh really? Did you come across anything interesting?

Yeah, I learned about isotone atoms and how they have the same number of neutrons.

That's cool! I didn't know that could change the element's properties.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Isotone is formed from "iso-" (meaning equal) and "tonos" (meaning tension or tone). The word refers to substances that have the same number of neutrons and thus exhibit equal tension or tone in a nuclear context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'iso-' meaning equal, and 'tonos' relating to tension or tone — isotones are substances that have equal tension in terms of their nuclear structure.

Visually Confused Words