When you're trying to find atomic numbers and masses, be careful of these common mistakes:
Mixing Up Atomic Number and Mass Number: Remember that the atomic number tells us how many protons are in an element. The mass number is the total of protons and neutrons. For example, carbon has an atomic number of 6, which means it has 6 protons. Its mass number can be 12, like in carbon-12 ().
Not Thinking About Isotopes: Isotopes are different versions of the same element. They have the same atomic number but different mass numbers. For example, both carbon-12 and carbon-14 have an atomic number of 6. But their mass numbers are 12 and 14, which makes them different isotopes.
Rounding Mass Numbers: Avoid rounding atomic masses before you finish your calculations. Rounding can give you wrong answers. Always look at the periodic table for the exact numbers you need.
When you're trying to find atomic numbers and masses, be careful of these common mistakes:
Mixing Up Atomic Number and Mass Number: Remember that the atomic number tells us how many protons are in an element. The mass number is the total of protons and neutrons. For example, carbon has an atomic number of 6, which means it has 6 protons. Its mass number can be 12, like in carbon-12 ().
Not Thinking About Isotopes: Isotopes are different versions of the same element. They have the same atomic number but different mass numbers. For example, both carbon-12 and carbon-14 have an atomic number of 6. But their mass numbers are 12 and 14, which makes them different isotopes.
Rounding Mass Numbers: Avoid rounding atomic masses before you finish your calculations. Rounding can give you wrong answers. Always look at the periodic table for the exact numbers you need.