atomic mass
The term "atomic mass" is crucial in chemistry and physics for understanding the mass of atoms and elements, including their isotopes.
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Definition
B2Chemistry
(technical, academic)The total mass of an atom, including protons, neutrons, and electrons, typically measured in atomic mass units (amu) or daltons (Da).
Example
- The atomic mass of carbon-12 is exactly 12 amu.
- Scientists use atomic mass to compare different elements.
C1Physics
(technical, academic)The weighted average mass of an element's atoms, considering the natural abundance of its isotopes, expressed in unified atomic mass units (u).
Example
- The atomic mass of chlorine is approximately 35.5 u due to its isotopic composition.
- Understanding atomic mass is essential for calculating molecular weights.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "atomic mass":