What does the mass number of an atom indicate?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about what the mass number of an atom signifies, specifically regarding its relation to the constituents of the atom, such as protons and neutrons.
Answer
The total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
The mass number indicates the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
Answer for screen readers
The mass number indicates the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom.
More Information
The mass number is different from the atomic number; the atomic number only counts the protons.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the mass number with the atomic mass or atomic number. Remember, the mass number is the sum of protons and neutrons.
Sources
- Mass number - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Atomic Number & Mass Number - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- 3.4: Atomic Mass and Atomic Number - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
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