5.

1 Reacting Masses
Masses Measure: (Unit-> amu)
- Atoms-> Atomic Mass
- Molecules (halogens, simple covalent compound)-> molecular mass
- Ionic Compound-> Formula Mass
When we want to know the mass of the atoms of the element, we need to have a standard atom to
compare the masses of the atoms, as they are so small that you cannot weigh them even if you use most
accurate balance. Carbon-12 atom – Standard atom to compare
masses of others
 Relative Atomic Mass: The average mass of naturally occurring atoms of element that are
compared with carbon-12 atom that have the mass of exactly 12 units.
Symbol- Ar
Why carbon-12?
Unitless quantity
- Fittest atom for this use because of its
Moderate weight to compare, abundant on earth.
 Relative Molecular Mass: The sum of relative atomic masses shown in molecules.
Molecular Mass= Relative Atomic Mass ( In Mr, there is no unit)
 Formula Mass: The sum of relative atomic masses of each atoms in
A compound. < use to workout the formula mass of ionic compound, not molecules

Symbol-Mr
Unitless quantity