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Chapter 3: Problem 46

What is so special about the mass number and atomic mass of \({ }_{6}^{12} \mathrm{C}\) ?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The mass number and atomic mass of \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) are special because carbon-12 serves as the reference standard for atomic mass measurement. Its atomic mass is defined as exactly 12 atomic mass units (amu), setting the scale for the atomic mass unit system. Carbon-12 was chosen as the reference standard due to its abundance and stability. This enables accurate and consistent comparisons of atomic masses between different elements, which is vital in various fields like chemistry, physics, and biology for understanding atomic structures and properties.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Mass Number and Atomic Mass

Mass number represents the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. In the case of \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\), the mass number is 12, indicating that there are 6 protons and 6 neutrons in its nucleus. Atomic mass is the weighted average mass of an element's isotopes, usually expressed in atomic mass units (amu).
02

Recognize the Role of \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) in the Atomic Mass Unit System

\({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) is special because it is used as the reference standard for atomic mass measurement. The atomic mass of carbon-12 is defined as exactly 12 atomic mass units, which sets the atomic mass unit (amu) scale.
03

Explain Why \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) was Chosen as the Reference Standard

Carbon-12 was chosen as the reference standard because it is the most abundant and stable isotope of carbon. This made it a logical choice to serve as a basis for the atomic mass unit system, as it allows for a consistent and accurate comparison of atomic masses between different elements.
04

Describe the Significance of \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) in the Context of Atomic Mass

The significance of \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\) lies in its definition of the atomic mass unit, which allows scientists to compare and measure atomic masses of different elements accurately. Since the atomic mass scale is based on \({ }_{6}^{12}\mathrm{C}\), it ensures uniformity and precision in measuring atomic masses. This is crucial in fields like chemistry, physics, and biology for understanding atomic structures and properties of various elements and compounds.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

What would the charge on a ion be if, starting from the neutral atom: (a) You add three electrons. (b) You remove four electrons. (c) You add two neutrons to the nucleus.

For each pair, indicate which atom loses an electron more easily: (a) \(\mathrm{Na}\) or \(\mathrm{K}\) (b) Na or Al (c) \(\mathrm{Rb}\) or \(\mathrm{Ca}\) (d) \(\mathrm{S}\) or \(\mathrm{Cl}\) (e) Br or Kr

Fill in the following table: $$ \begin{array}{lcccc} & { }_{8}^{15} \mathrm{O}^{+} & ? & ? & ? \\ \hline \text { Mass number } & ? & 27 & ? & 58 \\ \text { Atomic number } & ? & ? & 15 & ? \\ \text { Number of protons } & ? & 13 & ? & ? \\ \text { Number of neutrons } & ? & ? & 16 & 30 \\ \text { Number of electrons } & ? & ? & ? & 27 \\ \text { Charge on ion } & ? & +3 & -3 & +1 \\ \hline \end{array} $$

How many elements are in each transition metal period of the periodic table? How many are in each lanthanide (rare earth)/actinide period?

Arrange \(\mathrm{Na}, \mathrm{Cs}, \mathrm{S}, \mathrm{Cl}\) in order of increasing first ionization energy.
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