What is Atomic Mass?
The sum of the number of protons and neutrons is called the atomic mass of the element. The atomic mass as the name suggests is the mass of the atoms. As we know that atoms are made up of electrons, protons, and neutrons and the mass of protons and neutrons is exponentially higher than the mass of electrons so for finding the mass of the atom we find the number of protons and neutrons in the atom.
Atomic Mass is a relative concept and is measured in Atomic Mass Units. We define 1 amu as the 1/12 mass of the carbon (C-12) atom. Hence if we say the mass of a Sodium atom is 23 amu it means it is 23 times heavier than 1/12 of the C-12 atom.
Check, Fractional Atomic Mass
Atomic Mass of Some Common Elements
The atomic masses of some common elements are discussed below in the table:
Elements |
Atomic Mass (amu) |
---|---|
Hydrogen | 1 |
Helium | 4 |
Carbon | 12 |
Nitrogen | 14 |
Oxygen | 16 |
Chlorine | 35.5 |
What is Atom?
Atoms are tiny particles that comprise all the things in the known universe. Atoms of an element are responsible for all chemical reactions occurring in nature. We know that atoms are made up of three fundamental particles namely,
- Electrons
- Protons
- Neutrons
These particles are also called subatomic particles as they are found inside atoms. An atom is the basic building block of matter and all the thing around us is made up of combing atoms in different proportions. Let’s learn more about Atom, its constituents, and its structure in detail in this article.
Table of Content
- Atom Definition
- Structure of Atom
- History of Atom
- What is the Size of an Atom?
- What is Atomic Mass?
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