What is the mass number?

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the mass number?

Explanation:
Mass number is a count of the nucleons in the nucleus—the total number of protons and neutrons. The protons define what element it is, and the neutrons add to the mass. Electrons lie outside the nucleus and have negligible mass for this purpose, so they aren’t included in the mass number. Therefore, the mass number equals protons plus neutrons, which is why the correct description is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

Mass number is a count of the nucleons in the nucleus—the total number of protons and neutrons. The protons define what element it is, and the neutrons add to the mass. Electrons lie outside the nucleus and have negligible mass for this purpose, so they aren’t included in the mass number. Therefore, the mass number equals protons plus neutrons, which is why the correct description is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

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