### Understanding the Difference Between Average Atomic Mass and Mass NumberThe question explores how average atomic mass and mass number differ:**Question 16**: Average atomic mass is different from mass number because . . .- **A.** The average atomic mass describes the mass number of a single atom, but mass number describes the average of all exact masses among isotopes of an element.- **B.** Mass number describes the approximate mass of the nucleus of a single atom, but average atomic mass describes the weighted average of all the exact masses among isotopes of an element.- **C.** Mass number describes the exact mass of a single atom, but average atomic mass describes the average of all mass numbers.- **D.** Mass number describes the approximate mass of the nucleus of a single atom, but average atomic mass describes the largest mass among isotopes of an element.**Explanation**:- The **mass number** specifically refers to the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of a single atom, often rounded to the nearest whole number.- The **average atomic mass** considers the average of all isotopes' masses, weighted by their natural abundance.**Correct Choice: B** - This option accurately reflects that while the mass number refers to a single nucleus's protons and neutrons, average atomic mass is a weighted average of all isotopes' exact masses.

Answered: 16. Average atomic mass is different…

Chemistry

10th Edition

ISBN:9781305957404

Author:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste

Publisher:Steven S. Zumdahl, Susan A. Zumdahl, Donald J. DeCoste

Chapter1: Chemical Foundations

Section: Chapter Questions

Problem 1RQ: Define and explain the differences between the following terms. a. law and theory b. theory and...

See similar textbooks

Related questions

Concept explainers

Question

100%

Expert Solution

Step 1

The atomic number of an atom is the number of protons present in the atom. For a neutral atom, the number of electrons is also the same as the atomic number. Hence, we can say that:

Atomic number = number of protons = number of electrons

The mass number of the atom is the sum of the protons and neutrons present in the atom.

The mass number is = number of protons + number of neutrons

Step by step

Solved in 3 steps

SEE SOLUTION Check out a sample Q&A here

Knowledge Booster

Learn more about

Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, chemistry and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.

Similar questions