What is the relative mass of a proton?

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 relative mass of a proton?

Explanation:
On the relative mass scale used in chemistry, a proton is given a mass of 1 because protons and neutrons have about the same actual mass, while electrons are far lighter. So the relative mass of a proton is 1. The other options would imply either no mass (0) or a different unit size (2 or 3), which isn’t how the scale is defined. Electrons contribute so little to atomic mass that they’re not given the same unit on this scale.

On the relative mass scale used in chemistry, a proton is given a mass of 1 because protons and neutrons have about the same actual mass, while electrons are far lighter. So the relative mass of a proton is 1. The other options would imply either no mass (0) or a different unit size (2 or 3), which isn’t how the scale is defined. Electrons contribute so little to atomic mass that they’re not given the same unit on this scale.

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