Skip to content
    Physics A-Level

    Isotopes

    What Isotopes means in Physics A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.

    Definitions of Isotopes

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Isotopes in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Atoms of the same element with the same proton number Z but different nucleon numbers A, so they have different numbers of neutrons.
    AQA · Constituents of the atom (study guide)
    Nuclei of the same element with the same proton number but different nucleon number, hence different neutron numbers.
    OCR · The nuclear atom (study guide)
    Atoms with the same proton number but different numbers of neutrons.
    OCR · The nuclear atom (study guide)

    Topics that use Isotopes

    Related terms

    Using Isotopes in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Physics questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Physics A-Level terms