1. What is Atomic Mass?

Atomic mass is the weighted average mass of an element's isotopes, taking into account their natural abundances. It's measured in atomic mass units (amu) and appears on the periodic table for each element.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the atomic mass formula:

Where:

• Abundance — Natural percentage of each isotope
• Isotope Mass — Mass of each isotope in atomic mass units (amu)

Explanation: The formula calculates a weighted average where more abundant isotopes contribute more to the overall atomic mass.

3. Importance of Atomic Mass Calculation

Details: Accurate atomic mass values are essential for chemical calculations, stoichiometry, and understanding element properties. They help predict how elements will behave in chemical reactions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter isotope masses in amu and their natural abundances in percentage. You can calculate with one or two isotopes (abundances will automatically normalize to 100% if needed).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why do we use weighted average for atomic mass?
A: Elements exist as mixtures of isotopes with different masses. The weighted average reflects the actual mass you'd expect in a natural sample.

Q2: What if abundances don't add up to 100%?
A: The calculator will normalize them to 100% if you enter two isotopes. For one isotope, enter 100% abundance.

Q3: How precise should my inputs be?
A: For accurate results, use isotope masses to at least 4 decimal places and abundances to 2 decimal places.

Q4: Can I calculate with more than two isotopes?
A: This calculator handles up to two isotopes. For more isotopes, you would extend the same formula.

Q5: Why is atomic mass not a whole number?
A: Most elements have multiple isotopes with different masses, and the weighted average typically isn't a whole number.