Chapter 15, Problem 7RAT

To determine

The correct option for the statement “Why are the atomic mass listed in the periodic table not whole numbers?”.

Answer to Problem 7RAT

The correct answer for the statement “Why are the atomic mass listed in the periodic table not whole numbers” is option (c).

Explanation of Solution

Atoms of every element have characteristics that the number of protons and the number of protons is equal to the atomic number of that atom, while the number of neutron can vary for a given element. This result in the formation of the same atom but differs in the number of neutrons which are known as isotopes.

The atomic mass that is listed in the periodic table is not a whole number because atomic mass is the average of all isotopes of an atom.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct answer for the statement “Why are the atomic mass listed in the periodic table not whole numbers” is option (c).