What are isotopes?

Isotopes of an element are chemically almost identical. They only differ in the number of particles (neutrons) in their nucleus, and thus in their atomic weight. Using mass spectrometers, the difference in their isotope mass can be measured and the isotope be identified.

A science animation designed and produced by:

Friedhelm von Blanckenburg, GFZ Potsdam
Andreas Schulz, Filmbüro Potsdam

DOI: 10.2312/GFZ.3.3.2017.005