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).

Calculating relative atomic masses (A<sub>r</sub>)

Calculating relative atomic masses (Ar)

  • We can calculate relative atomic masses (Ar) using the expression shown above.
Equation explained

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'.
E.g. a<sub>r</sub> of chlorine

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
1

States of Matter

2

Elements, Compounds & Mixtures

3

Atomic Structure

4

The Periodic Table

5

Chemical Formulae, Equations & Calculations

6

Bonding

7

Electrolysis

8

Groups of the Periodic Table

9

The Atmosphere

10

Reactivity Series

11

Metal Extraction

12

Acids & Alkalis

13

Chemical Tests

14

Physical Chemistry

15

Organic Chemistry

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