1.

How is relative atomic mass of an atom measured?

Answer»
  • The mass of a single atom is extremely small, i.e. the mass of a hydrogen atom is 1.6736 × 10-24g. Hence, it is not possible to weigh a single atom.
  • In the present system, mass of an atom is determined relative to the mass of an atom of carbon-12 as the standard. This was decided in 1961 by international agreement.
  • The atomic mass of carbon-12 is assigned as 12.00000 atomic mass unit (amu).
  • The masses of all other elements are determined relative to the mass of an atom of carbon-12 (C-12).
  • The atomic masses are expressed in amu which is exactly equal to one twelth of the mass of one carbon-12 atom.
  • The value of 1 amu is equal to 1.6605 × 10-24 g.


Discussion

No Comment Found

Related InterviewSolutions