Question

What is the molecular mass of oxygen in its elemental form?

Short answer

The molecular mass of oxygen (\( \text{O}_2 \)) is 32 amu.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the elemental form of oxygen

Oxygen in its elemental form exists as a diatomic molecule, represented as \( \text{O}_2 \). This means that each molecule of elemental oxygen contains two oxygen atoms.

Determine the atomic mass of a single oxygen atom

The atomic mass of a single oxygen atom is approximately 16 atomic mass units (amu). This value can be looked up on the periodic table where the approximate atomic mass of oxygen is listed.

Calculate the molecular mass of O2

Since there are two oxygen atoms in one molecule of \( \text{O}_2 \), the molecular mass is given by: \[ ext{Molecular mass of } \text{O}_2 = 2 imes 16 = 32 \text{ amu} \]This calculation accounts for the mass of each oxygen atom in the pair that forms the molecule.

Key concepts

Oxygen Diatomic Molecule

In its natural state, oxygen is not found as single atoms, but rather as a diatomic molecule. This means it is always composed of two atoms bonded together. Chemically, this form of oxygen is represented as \( \text{O}_2 \). This characteristic is very important because it affects calculations related to molecular mass, among other properties.

Understanding the diatomic nature of oxygen is crucial, as it reflects how oxygen exists in the atmosphere and how it is utilized in biological systems. Most living organisms depend on \( \text{O}_2 \) for respiration, where these molecules enter cells and are split up to release energy.

• The notation \( \text{O}_2 \) tells us that each molecule is made up of two oxygen atoms.
• This diatomic nature influences the chemical reactions oxygen participates in, especially combustion and respiration.

Atomic Mass Unit

The atomic mass unit (amu) is a standard unit used to express atomic and molecular masses. It's incredibly small, roughly equal to the mass of a single proton or neutron, which are the heavy particles found within an atom's nucleus.

When calculating molecular mass, the amu simplifies the math by allowing chemists to express very small masses in a more manageable form. For an oxygen atom, this value is approximately 16 amu. This uniformity in using amu allows scientists and students to easily compare the masses of different atoms and molecules.

• 1 amu is approximately equal to \( 1.66 \times 10^{-27} \) kilograms.
• Oxygen atoms have an atomic mass of about 16 amu.

By using amu, the complex world of atomic masses becomes more comprehensible for educational and practical applications.

Periodic Table

The periodic table is one of the most important tools in chemistry and education. It organizes all known elements in a comprehensive and understandable manner based on their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. For students, it is an essential reference that provides crucial information about each element, such as its atomic mass, symbol, and more.

For oxygen, you can find it on the periodic table with an atomic number of 8, indicating it has 8 protons in its nucleus. Its position in the periodic table also provides insights into its properties and reactions.

• The atomic mass listed in the periodic table for oxygen is about 16 amu.
• The table helps predict how elements like oxygen will interact with other substances.

Using the periodic table effectively can provide a strong foundation for understanding various chemical concepts, and it is indispensable for solving problems related to molecular mass and composition.