Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
relative atomic mass
noun
/ˈrɛlətɪv ˈætɒmɪk mæs/
Definition
The weighted average mass of an atom of an element compared to that of carbon-12, which is assigned a mass of exactly 12 atomic mass units (amu).
Examples
- The relative atomic mass of hydrogen is approximately 1.008 amu.
- Oxygen has a relative atomic mass of about 16.00 amu.
- When calculating the molar mass of a compound, consider the relative atomic masses of all the elements involved.
Meaning
Relative atomic mass gives the mass of an atom relative to the mass of carbon-12, allowing for comparison between different elements.
Synonyms
- Atomic weight
- Atomic mass
