Chapter 3, Problem 21DQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The reason as to why atomic mass of $\text{B}$ in the periodic table is $\text{10}\text{.81}\text{u}$ despite none of its atoms has mass $\text{10}\text{.81}\text{u}$ is to be stated.

Concept introduction:Various isotopes of a specific element are characterized by different neutron number and hence, different atomic mass. These isotopes exist in different percentage abundances in nature. The product of these percentage abundance and isotope’s mass when added gives the element’s average atomic mass. This average atomic mass is eventually represented in the periodic table.