The molar mass constant, denoted as Mᵤ, is found by using the molar mass of carbon-12. According to the provided reference, the molar mass constant (Mᵤ) is defined as one-twelfth of the molar mass of carbon-12 (M(¹²C)): Mᵤ = M(¹²C)/12.
To calculate the molar mass constant:
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Identify the Molar Mass of Carbon-12: The molar mass of carbon-12 (M(¹²C)) is exactly 12 grams per mole (12 g/mol). This is a defined quantity.
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Apply the Formula: Divide the molar mass of carbon-12 by 12.
Mᵤ = (12 g/mol) / 12 = 1 g/mol
Therefore, the molar mass constant (Mᵤ) is exactly 1 gram per mole (1 g/mol).
Here is a summary of the steps to find the molar mass constant:
| Step | Action | Value / Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Identify the molar mass of carbon-12 (M(¹²C)) | 12 g/mol |
| 2 | Divide M(¹²C) by 12 | (12 g/mol) / 12 = 1 g/mol |
| 3 | The result is the molar mass constant (Mᵤ) | 1 g/mol |
The molar mass constant is essential because it bridges the gap between atomic mass units (amu) and grams per mole, allowing us to perform calculations using macroscopic amounts of matter. It is a fundamental constant in chemistry and physics.
