The atomic number for an element can be defined as the number of protons (p) in the nucleus of an atom of that element. The mass number for an element can be defined as the total number of protons (p) and neutrons (n) in the nucleus of an atom of that element. In this article, we will learn in detail the differences between Atomic Number and Mass Number.
Atomic Number- Definition
The atomic number for an element is the number of protons (p) present in the nucleus of an atom of that element. It is a unique property of an element and determines the chemical properties of the element. The atomic number is used to arrange elements in the periodic table and is used as a basis for defining the number of electrons in an atom of that element. Elements with the same atomic number are referred to as isotopes and have the same number of protons (p) and electrons but may have different numbers of neutrons (n) and, therefore, different atomic masses. Also Refer: How to find Atomic Number
1. Notation of Atomic Number
The notation for an atomic number is Z. It is usually represented as a subscript to the left of the element symbol.
Notation of Atomic Number
2. Mass Number- Definition
Protons (p), neutrons (n), and electrons make up an atom. Since the mass of electrons is negligible, the accurate mass of an atom is ultimately determined by protons (p) and neutrons (n). The mass number for an element is the total number of protons (p) and neutrons (n) present in one atom. For example, one atom of sodium contains 11 protons (p) and 12 neutrons (n), so the mass number of sodium is 11+12 = 23. Similarly, a carbon atom has 6 protons (p) and 6 neutrons (n). Its mass number is 6 + 6 = 12. Also Refer: What is Atomic Mass?
2.1 Notation of Mass Number
In chemical notation, if the element is X, the mass number A is written as the superscript.
Notation Of Mass Number
3. Atomic Number Vs. Mass Number
Atomic Number | Mass Number |
The number of protons (p) in the nucleus of an atom of a given element. | The total number of protons (p) and neutrons (n) in the nucleus of an atom of a given element. |
It is denoted by the letter Z and is written as a subscript on the left-hand side. | It is denoted by the letter A and is written as a superscript on the left-hand side. |
For example, the atomic number of Oxygen is 8. | For example, the mass number of Oxygen is 16. |
Key Takeaways
The atomic number for an element is the number of protons (p) in an atom.
Atomic Number is denoted by the letter Z.
The mass number for an element is the total number of protons (p) and neutrons (n) in an atom.
The mass number is denoted by the letter A.
FAQs
1. How is the atomic number represented in atomic notation?
The symbol Z represents the atomic number in the atomic notation of an element.
2. How is the mass number represented in atomic notation?
The mass number is represented by the symbol A in the atomic notation of an element.
3. Can isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number?
Yes, isotopes of the same element can have the same atomic number. This is because they have the same number of protons (p) in their nuclei. However, they have different mass numbers because they have different numbers of neutrons (n) in their nuclei.
4. How can the number of neutrons (n) in an atom be determined?
The number of neutrons (n) in an atom can be determined by subtracting the atomic number (the number of protons (p)) from the mass number: Number of neutrons (n) = Mass number - Atomic number
5. What is the relevance of the difference between atomic number and mass number?
The difference between atomic number and mass number is important because it provides information about the structure of the nucleus of an atom and the number of particles present in it. The atomic number specifies the chemical properties of an element, while the mass number gives information about the total number of particles in the nucleus of an atom.
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