Since an atom can't have a partial neutron, the atomic mass should always be a whole number, but it isn't! An interactive video lesson explains how the atomic mass number from the periodic table incorporates the isotopes of an element. The narrator offers multiple examples calculating the weighted mean mass of an element.

Concepts

atomic mass, atomic mass number, atomic numbers, neutrons, isotopes

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Post the video as a resource for absent pupils and those needing extra instruction
• Use the questions posed by the narrator as discussion questions in class

Classroom Considerations

• Expects a solid understanding of atom composition and isotopes

Pros

• Uses an interactive approach to keep scholars engaged
• Animations add clarity to the complex concept

Cons

• None