3.1.5

Relative Atomic Mass

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Relative Atomic Mass (Ar)

The relative atomic mass (Ar) is the average mass of all of the isotopes of an element. It takes into account how often each isotope is found (the isotope abundance).

Illustrative background for Calculating relative atomic masses (A<sub>r</sub>)Illustrative background for Calculating relative atomic masses (A<sub>r</sub>) ?? "content

Calculating relative atomic masses (Ar)

  • We can calculate relative atomic masses (Ar) using the expression shown above.
Illustrative background for Equation explainedIllustrative background for Equation explained ?? "content

Equation explained

  • The Σ means 'sum of'.
  • The numerator is 'the sum of the isotope abundance times the isotope mass'.
  • The denominator is 'the sum of all the isotope abundances'.
Illustrative background for E.g. a<sub>r</sub> of chlorineIllustrative background for E.g. a<sub>r</sub> of chlorine ?? "content

E.g. ar of chlorine

  • Cl may exist as 2 isotopes, 35Cl and 37Cl.
  • Isotope abundances:
    • 75% 35Cl
    • 25% 37Cl
      • Ar = (0.75 x 35) + (0.25 x 37) = 35.5.
  • The existence of isotopes means that the relative atomic mass is not always a whole number.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3Atomic Structure

4The Periodic Table

5Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6Bonding

7Electrolysis

8Groups of the Periodic Table

9The Atmosphere

10Reactivity Series

11Metal Extraction

12Acids & Alkalis

13Chemical Tests

14Physical Chemistry

15Organic Chemistry

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