🔋college physics i – introduction review

key term - Atomic mass

Definition

Atomic mass is the weighted average mass of an atom's naturally occurring isotopes, measured in atomic mass units (amu). It reflects both the mass and relative abundance of each isotope.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Atomic mass is not a whole number because it is an average of all isotopes' masses.
  2. It is measured in atomic mass units (amu), where 1 amu is defined as one-twelfth the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
  3. The atomic mass listed on the periodic table accounts for the relative abundances of an element's isotopes.
  4. In nuclear physics, understanding atomic mass helps explain nuclear reactions and stability.
  5. Isotopic variations impact calculations involving molar masses and material compositions.

Review Questions

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