Atomic Number and Mass

These flashcards cover key concepts related to atomic structure, including atomic number, mass number, isotopes, and atomic mass.

Atomic Number

The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom, which determines the identity of an element.

Isotopes

Different forms of the same atom that vary only in the number of neutrons they possess.

Mass Number

The total number of protons and neutrons in an atomic nucleus.

Atomic Mass

The calculated mean of the mass numbers of an element's naturally occurring isotopes.

Chlorine's Atomic Mass

35.45, due to its composition of isotopes with atomic masses of 35 and 37.

How can you calculate the number of neutrons in an element?

Subtract the number of protons from the mass number.