Dalton

Definition

Dalton, also known as the atomic mass unit (amu), is a standard unit of mass that quantifies the mass of atoms and molecules. One Dalton is defined as one-twelfth the mass of a carbon-12 atom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1 Dalton is approximately equal to 1.66053906660 x 10^-27 kilograms.
2. It is named after John Dalton, an English chemist who developed the modern atomic theory.
3. The Dalton is used to express atomic and molecular masses in chemistry.
4. One mole of a substance has a mass in grams equal to its molecular weight in Daltons.
5. Daltons are essential for calculating stoichiometric relationships in chemical reactions.

Review Questions

Related terms

Atomic Mass Unit (amu): A unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights, equivalent to one-twelfth the mass of a carbon-12 atom.

Mole:

A fundamental unit in chemistry representing Avogadro's number (6.022 x 10^23) of atoms, molecules, or ions.

Stoichiometry:

\text{The calculation of reactants and products in chemical reactions based on the conservation of mass.}