Chapter 4.3, Problem 28LC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The atomic mass is to be calculated.

Concept Introduction : The weighted average mass of the atoms in a naturally occurring sample of an element is the atomic mass.

Answer to Problem 28LC

For the calculation of atomic mass, multiply each isotope's mass by its natural abundance, represented as a decimal, and add on the products.

Explanation of Solution

The weighted average mass of the atoms in a naturally occurring sample of an element is the atomic mass.

The mass and relative abundance of isotopes as they appear in nature are both reflected in the weighted average mass.

An element's atomic mass is calculated as the weighted average of all of its isotopes' masses.

On relative abundance lies the base.

For the calculation of atomic mass, multiply each isotope's mass by its natural abundance, represented as a decimal, and add on the products.