Verified Solution Science Journey Inside the Atom

Given a sample of natural neon, which consists of three isotopes: Ne-20 (90.92%), Ne-21 (0.26%), and Ne-22 (8.82%). Explain why the atomic mass of neon is approximately 20.18 amu, and not a whole number.

2 views 0 helpful Updated Jul 5, 2026
Solution ✔ Verified
Answer

The atomic mass of neon is 20.18 amu because it is the weighted average of the masses of its naturally occurring isotopes. Each isotope contributes to the average based on its mass number and its relative abundance in nature. Since the most abundant isotope is Ne-20 (over 90%), the average atomic mass is closer to 20 but slightly higher due to the presence of heavier isotopes Ne-21 and Ne-22.

Was this solution helpful?
0
Practice more questions on Journey Inside the Atom — download a free worksheet. Download
Not the question you're searching for? + Ask your question