Which is true about stable isotopes?(1 point)

Question

Isotopes are always unstable because they are radioactive.
Isotopes that are naturally occurring in nature are always unstable.
A stable nucleus has a similar number of protons and neutrons.
Isotopes with more neutrons than protons are always stable.

Answer 1

The correct statement about stable isotopes is:

A stable nucleus has a similar number of protons and neutrons.

This is because stable isotopes generally have a balanced ratio of protons to neutrons, which contributes to the stability of the nucleus. The other statements are incorrect:

1. Isotopes can be stable or unstable; not all isotopes are radioactive.
2. There are naturally occurring isotopes that are stable.
3. Isotopes with more neutrons than protons can be either stable or unstable; it depends on the specific isotope.