State three important applications of isotopes in various fields. Why isotopes showsimilar chemical properties.

Isotopes have several important applications in various fields. Here are three examples:

1. Medical Imaging: Isotopes are used in medical imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). In these techniques, isotopes are introduced into the body and their radiation is detected to create detailed images of organs and tissues. This helps in diagnosing diseases and monitoring the effectiveness of treatments.

2. Agriculture: Isotopes are used in agriculture to study plant and soil processes. For example, isotopes of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen are used to track the uptake and movement of nutrients in plants. This information helps in optimizing fertilizer use and improving crop yields.

3. Archaeology and Forensics: Isotopes can be used to determine the age of artifacts and human remains. Carbon-14 dating is a commonly used method to determine the age of organic materials. Isotopes of elements like strontium and lead can also be used to trace the origin of materials, which is useful in forensic investigations.

Isotopes show similar chemical properties because they have the same number of protons and electrons, which determines the element's chemical behavior. However, isotopes have different numbers of neutrons, which affects their atomic mass. This difference in atomic mass does not significantly alter the chemical behavior of isotopes, allowing them to exhibit similar chemical properties.