HESI A21
HESI A2 Chemistry Practice Test
1. Different isotopes of a particular element contain the same number of
- A. Protons
- B. Neutrons
- C. Protons and neutrons
- D. Protons, neutrons, and electrons
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Different isotopes of a particular element contain the same number of protons. Isotopes are defined by the number of neutrons they have, which can vary while the number of protons remains the same. This is because the number of protons in an atom determines its elemental identity. Choice B - Neutrons is incorrect because isotopes can have different numbers of neutrons. Choice C - Protons and neutrons is incorrect because the number of neutrons can vary in isotopes. Choice D - Protons, neutrons, and electrons is incorrect because electrons are not fixed and can vary in an atom, but the number of protons is what defines the element.