Multiple Choice
Calculate the average mass, in grams, of one platinum atom given that the atomic mass of platinum is approximately 195.08 amu.
2. Atoms & Elements
Atomic Mass
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How is the average atomic mass of an element calculated?
A
By averaging the atomic numbers of all isotopes of the element.
B
By taking the sum of the masses of all isotopes of the element.
C
By dividing the total mass of the element by the number of isotopes.
D
By multiplying the mass of each isotope by its natural abundance and summing the results.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons, resulting in different atomic masses.
Recognize that the average atomic mass of an element is a weighted average, taking into account the mass and natural abundance of each isotope.
For each isotope, multiply its atomic mass by its natural abundance (expressed as a decimal). For example, if an isotope has a mass of 10 amu and an abundance of 20%, you would calculate 10 amu * 0.20.
Sum the results of these multiplications for all isotopes of the element to get the average atomic mass. This accounts for the contribution of each isotope to the overall atomic mass of the element.
Ensure that the natural abundances of all isotopes add up to 1 (or 100% if expressed as percentages) to verify the calculation is correct.
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