How many neutrons are present in an isotope of carbon that has a mass number of 14?
The mass number of an isotope represents the total number of protons and neutrons in its nucleus. Carbon's atomic number is 6, which means it has 6 protons. To calculate the number of neutrons, subtract the atomic number from the mass number:
Number of neutrons = Mass number - Atomic number
Number of neutrons = 14 - 6
Number of neutrons = 8
Therefore, there are 8 neutrons present in an isotope of carbon with a mass number of 14.