Question

Researchers tested a meteorite for organic molecules containing 13C and 15N, which are carbon and nitrogen atoms with one extra neutron. However, a skeptic questions whether these "heavy" carbon and nitrogen isotopes would readily bond to make organic molecules such as amino acids and nitrogenous bases. Would extra neutrons affect the bonding of heavy carbon and nitrogen atoms?
-Yes, extra neutrons would make carbon and nitrogen more likely to bond.

-No, because only electrons are involved in bonding.

-No, because the number of protons remains the same.

-Yes. Atoms with extra neutrons must also have extra electrons, which would affect bonding

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is "No, because only electrons are involved in bonding".

Explanation:

A covalent bond, which is the strongest type of chemical bonding, occurs when two atoms share electron pairs. Covalent bonds are the most common chemical bonds on organic molecules, such as amino acids and nitrogenous bases. Neutrons did not participate in the formation of covalent bonds, therefore the extra neutrons in the meteorite organic molecules would not affect the bonding, because only electrons are involved in bonding.