A chemistry student analyzes three neutral particulate samples, labeled X, Y, and Z, to determine whether they represent the same chemical element. Laboratory instrumentation reveals that sample X contains 6 protons and 6 neutrons, sample Y contains 6 protons and 8 neutrons, and sample Z contains 7 protons and 7 neutrons. Based on these fundamental subatomic characteristics, which statement correctly identifies the relationship between these samples?

A) Samples X and Z are isotopes of the same element because they possess identical neutron counts.

B) Samples X and Y belong to the same element, whereas sample Z represents a different element.

C) All three samples belong to different elements because their mass numbers are completely distinct.

D) Samples Y and Z belong to the same element because their total nucleon sums are equal.

Atoms and elements Transitional Reasoning Practice

Chemistry · Atomic Structure · Chemistry · Atoms & Subatomic Particles

1 Chemistry practice questions on Atoms and elements. Questions that build towards applied reasoning.

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Atomic Structure · Chemistry

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