This mathematics problem involves applying core mathematical principles and formulas. Below you will find a complete step-by-step solution with detailed explanations for each step, helping you understand not just the answer but the method behind it.
ScanSolve AI Answer
Step 1: Convert the percentage abundances to fractional abundances. The fractional abundance is the percentage abundance divided by 100. For ^35Cl: 75.4\% = (75.4)/(100) = 0.754 For ^37Cl: 24.6\% = (24.6)/(100) = 0.246 Step 2: Use the formula for average atomic mass. The average atomic mass is calculated by summing the products of each isotope's mass and its fractional abundance. Average atomic mass = (mass of isotope 1 × fractional abundance of isotope 1) + (mass of isotope 2 × fractional abundance of isotope 2) Step 3: Substitute the given values into the formula. We assume the isotopic masses are approximately equal to their mass numbers, i.e., 35 amu for ^35Cl and 37 amu for ^37Cl. Average atomic mass = (35 amu × 0.754) + (37 amu × 0.246) Step 4: Perform the multiplication and addition. Average atomic mass = 26.39 amu + 9.102 amu Average atomic mass = 35.492 amu The average atomic mass of chlorine is 35.492 amu.