Asked by Jill

How do you calculate the atomic mass of an element when an isotopic composition is given
99.985% 1H; 0.015% 2H
Please show steps to solve!
Answered by bobpursley
The idea is the sum of the parts is equal to the whole.
100*avgatomicmass= 99.985*1 + .015*2

solve for avgatomicmass.
Answered by Jill
How???
Answered by Jill
Bob please help further
Answered by bobpursley
divide both sides by 100.
then on the right, muliply the terms and add.
Answered by Jill
Can you please show how in long form so I know how to do it! Thanks
Answered by Jill
Help please see last entry
Answered by Jill
Can you please show how in long form so I know how to do it! Thanks
Answered by Jill
ANYONE!!!
Answered by DrBob222
Here is what Bob Pursley wrote.
<b>100*avgatomicmass= 99.985*1 + .015*2</b>

Here is a rewritten form of his equation although his instructions for solving the equation are simple.
100*x = [99.9985*1 + 0.015*2]
solve for x which is the average atomic mass.