Calculating the Mass of Lithium Atoms

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 69 views

Understanding the Problem

In this problem, we are tasked with calculating the mass of lithium atoms present in 0.75 moles of lithium metal. To do this, we need to use the concept of relative atomic mass (A_r) and the given value of 7 for lithium.

What is Relative Atomic Mass?

Relative atomic mass (A_r) is a measure of the average mass of an atom of an element, relative to the mass of an atom of carbon-12. It takes into account the different isotopes of an element and their relative abundance. In this case, the relative atomic mass of lithium is given as 7.

Calculating the Mass of Lithium Atoms

To calculate the mass of lithium atoms present in 0.75 moles of lithium metal, we can use the formula:

mass = number of moles x relative atomic mass

In this case, the number of moles is 0.75 and the relative atomic mass is 7.

Step 1: Multiply the Number of Moles by the Relative Atomic Mass

mass = 0.75 x 7 mass = 5.25

Step 2: Round the Answer to 2 Decimal Places

Since we are asked to give our answer correct to 2 decimal places, we need to round the answer to 5.25 to 2 decimal places.

The Final Answer

The mass of lithium atoms present in 0.75 moles of lithium metal is 5.25.

Why is This Calculation Important?

Calculating the mass of lithium atoms is an important concept in chemistry, as it helps us understand the properties and behavior of elements. By knowing the mass of lithium atoms, we can predict how they will react with other elements and how they will behave in different situations.

Real-World Applications

The calculation of the mass of lithium atoms has many real-world applications, including:

Battery Technology: Lithium is a key component in many types of batteries, including lithium-ion batteries. Understanding the mass of lithium atoms is crucial in designing and developing more efficient and powerful batteries.
Nuclear Energy: Lithium is used as a coolant in some types of nuclear reactors. Knowing the mass of lithium atoms is essential in designing and operating these reactors safely and efficiently.
Materials Science: Lithium is used in the production of certain materials, such as lithium-aluminum alloys. Understanding the mass of lithium atoms is important in developing new materials with unique properties.

Conclusion

Q: What is the relative atomic mass of lithium?

A: The relative atomic mass of lithium is 7.

Q: How do I calculate the mass of lithium atoms present in a given number of moles?

A: To calculate the mass of lithium atoms, you need to multiply the number of moles by the relative atomic mass. The formula is:

mass = number of moles x relative atomic mass

Q: What is the unit of measurement for the mass of lithium atoms?

A: The unit of measurement for the mass of lithium atoms is typically grams (g).

Q: Can I use this calculation to determine the mass of other elements?

A: Yes, you can use this calculation to determine the mass of other elements by substituting the relative atomic mass of the element into the formula.

Q: What is the significance of the relative atomic mass in this calculation?

A: The relative atomic mass is a measure of the average mass of an atom of an element, relative to the mass of an atom of carbon-12. It takes into account the different isotopes of an element and their relative abundance.

Q: Can I use this calculation to determine the number of moles of an element?

A: No, this calculation is used to determine the mass of an element, not the number of moles. To determine the number of moles, you would need to use the formula:

number of moles = mass / relative atomic mass

Q: What are some real-world applications of calculating the mass of lithium atoms?

A: Some real-world applications of calculating the mass of lithium atoms include:

Battery Technology: Lithium is a key component in many types of batteries, including lithium-ion batteries. Understanding the mass of lithium atoms is crucial in designing and developing more efficient and powerful batteries.
Nuclear Energy: Lithium is used as a coolant in some types of nuclear reactors. Knowing the mass of lithium atoms is essential in designing and operating these reactors safely and efficiently.
Materials Science: Lithium is used in the production of certain materials, such as lithium-aluminum alloys. Understanding the mass of lithium atoms is important in developing new materials with unique properties.

Q: Can I use this calculation to determine the mass of a mixture of elements?

A: No, this calculation is used to determine the mass of a single element. To determine the mass of a mixture of elements, you would need to use the formula:

mass = (number of moles of element 1 x relative atomic mass of element 1) + (number of moles of element 2 x relative atomic mass of element 2) + ...

Q: What is the precision of the calculation?

A: The precision of the calculation depends on the number of decimal places used in the calculation. In this case, we are asked to give our answer correct to 2 decimal places.

Q: Can I use this calculation to determine the mass of a compound?

A: No, this calculation is used to determine the mass of an element, not a compound. To determine the mass of a compound, you would need to use the formula:

mass = (number of moles of element 1 x relative atomic mass of element 1) + (number of moles of element 2 x relative atomic mass of element 2) + ...

Conclusion

In conclusion, calculating the mass of lithium atoms is a straightforward process that involves multiplying the number of moles by the relative atomic mass. This calculation has many real-world applications, including battery technology, nuclear energy, and materials science.