Question detail
What is the definition of relative atomic mass?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
A simple model of the atom, symbols, relative atomic mass, electronic charge and isotopes
Question
What is the definition of relative atomic mass?
Answer
Relative atomic mass is defined as the average mass of an atom of an element, taking into account the abundance of its isotopes. It is measured relative to one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it clearly defines relative atomic mass and includes the concept of isotope abundance, which is essential for understanding how this value is calculated. The question tests the student's recall of a key definition in atomic structure.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Relative Atomic Mass
Students often define relative atomic mass as the mass of the most abundant isotope instead of the average value that accounts for all isotopes.
Emphasize that relative atomic mass is calculated as a weighted average based on the abundance of each isotope, not just the most common one.
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