Indicate if each of the following statements is true or false: (4.3) c. The atomic mass unit is based on a carbon atom with six protons and six neutrons.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of an atomic mass unit (amu).
2. Recall that the atomic mass unit is defined based on the carbon-12 isotope.
3. The carbon-12 isotope has six protons and six neutrons, making its atomic mass exactly 12 amu.
4. The atomic mass unit is defined as one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom.
5. Determine if the statement aligns with the definition of an atomic mass unit based on the carbon-12 isotope.

Key Concepts

Atomic Mass Unit (amu)

The atomic mass unit (amu) is a standard unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights. It is defined as one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom, which has six protons and six neutrons. This unit allows for the comparison of the mass of different atoms and molecules on a relative scale.

Carbon-12 Isotope

Carbon-12 is a stable isotope of carbon, consisting of six protons and six neutrons. It is the most abundant isotope of carbon and serves as the standard reference for defining the atomic mass unit. Understanding carbon-12 is crucial for grasping how atomic masses are calculated and compared.

Protons and Neutrons

Protons and neutrons are subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. Protons carry a positive charge, while neutrons are neutral. The number of protons determines the element's identity, while the total number of protons and neutrons gives the atomic mass. This distinction is essential for understanding atomic structure and mass calculations.