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Element X has two naturally occurring isotopes. Isotope A (mass 140 u) has an abundance of 75 % and isotope B (mass 141 u) has an abundance of 25 %. Calculate the average atomic mass of element X.

hard 3 marks Class 11 · Chemistry · Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
Answer

The correct answer is — Thus the average atomic mass of element X is 140.25 u.

Step-by-step solution

  1. Determine the mass contribution of each isotope using its relative abundance.
  2. Compute contribution of isotope A: .
  3. Compute contribution of isotope B: .
  4. Add the two contributions: .
  5. Thus the average atomic mass of element X is 140.25 u.
Common mistake: Using percentages as decimals incorrectly or summing masses without weighting

Concept tested: Atomic mass (isotopes)

Published · How this solution was prepared and checked

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