How Were the Atomic Weights Calculated in Question 50?

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In summary, the numbers 4.00260 amu + 1.00867 amu – 2.01410 amu – 3.01605 amu in question 50 of the provided link represent atomic mass units (with carbon-12 defined as 12.000000) and were most likely obtained from a poster on the lab wall. These numbers are not a constant times anything, as atomic weight is not a linear function of the number of nucleons. The numbers represent the result of fusing two protons (1H) together, resulting in a 2H (= 2.01410) and some leftover energy, which can be used in fusion reactors.
  • #1
ZedCar
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Homework Statement


In question 50 in this link:

http://www.tarleton.edu/Faculty/alow/prob21.htm

I was wondering how the numbers 4.00260 amu + 1.00867 amu – 2.01410 amu – 3.01605 amu been obtained?

Thank you.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #3
Thank you.

The first part of question 50 states 2H + 3H → 4He + 1n

So are they multiplying these numbers by a certain constant to arrive at the numbers of 4.00260 amu + 1.00867 amu – 2.01410 amu – 3.01605 amu

If so, what is this constant?

As the numbers do look just slightly more than the numbers which I have emboldened.
 
  • #4
they're not a constant times anything, atomic weight is not a linear function of the number of nucleons

fuse two protons (1H) together, that's two lots of 1.00867 = 2.01734, you get a 2H (= 2.01410) and some energy left over, which is the energy of fusion that they're trying to make use of in fusion reactors
 
  • #5
tiny-tim said:
you get a 2H

You may want to change it to something closer to reality :wink:
 
  • #6
oops! :biggrin:
 

FAQ: How Were the Atomic Weights Calculated in Question 50?

What is an atom?

An atom is the basic unit of matter, consisting of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. It is the smallest particle of an element that retains the properties of that element.

How is an atom structured?

An atom is structured with a positively charged nucleus at its center, containing protons and neutrons. Surrounding the nucleus are orbiting negatively charged electrons. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the element of the atom.

What are the different parts of an atom?

An atom is composed of three main parts: protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons have a positive charge, neutrons have no charge, and electrons have a negative charge. Protons and neutrons make up the nucleus, while electrons orbit around it.

What is an atomic number?

The atomic number of an element is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. It determines the element's identity and its placement on the periodic table. The number of electrons in an atom is also equal to its atomic number in a neutral atom.

How do atoms combine to form molecules?

Atoms combine through chemical bonds to form molecules. They can form bonds by sharing electrons or by transferring electrons from one atom to another. The type of bond formed depends on the elements involved and their electron configurations.

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