Question

Given that the only naturally occurring isotope of aluminum is \({ }^{27} \mathrm{Al}\), determine its mass from the periodic table.

Short answer

The mass of \({ }^{27}\mathrm{Al}\) is approximately 26.98 amu.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the problem

We're tasked with identifying the mass of the naturally occurring isotope of aluminum, which is \({ }^{27}\mathrm{Al}\), from the periodic table. This is the standard atomic mass.

Locate Aluminum on the Periodic Table

Find aluminum on the periodic table. Aluminum is located in Group 13 and Period 3, with the atomic number 13.

Read the Atomic Mass

On the periodic table, the atomic mass of aluminum is the number typically found beneath the element symbol 'Al'. This is often presented as the weighted average, but since \({ }^{27}\mathrm{Al}\) is the only isotope, it equals the atomic mass number.

Interpret the Atomic Mass

Aluminum's atomic mass is approximately 26.98 amu, reflecting the mass of its sole isotope \({ }^{27}\mathrm{Al}\).

Key concepts

Atomic Mass Made Simple

Atoms are made up of protons, neutrons, and electrons. The atomic mass, often listed under the element symbol on the periodic table, tells us how much an atom weighs. It's calculated mostly from the protons and neutrons, since electrons weigh very little. The standard for atomic mass is the atomic mass unit (amu), where 1 amu is defined as one twelfth of the mass of a carbon-12 atom. Most elements have more than one naturally occurring isotope, so their atomic mass is a weighted average of these isotopes. However, for some elements, like aluminum, there is only one naturally occurring isotope. This makes the atomic mass of the element equal to this single isotope's mass. In aluminum's case, it's very close to 27 amu. A crucial point is that the atomic mass helps us understand the element's behavior in chemical reactions, its density, and its role in forming compounds.

Decoding the Periodic Table

The periodic table is like the map of the world for chemists. It organizes all known chemical elements in a way that allows us to see trends and relationships between them. Each element has its spot on this table, providing key information such as atomic number, atomic mass, and sometimes other details like electron configuration. The periodic table arranges elements by increasing atomic number (protons in the nucleus). Horizontal rows are called periods, and vertical columns are called groups or families. Each group has elements with similar chemical properties. For instance, aluminum is found in Group 13, where elements tend to form similar compounds. This structured layout lets scientists quickly predict how an element might react under certain conditions. Overall, it's an essential tool for understanding and remembering essential details about elements.

Understanding Aluminum

Aluminum, symbolized as 'Al' on the periodic table, is a fascinating and highly useful element. It's located in Group 13, and it's the third most abundant element in Earth's crust. What makes aluminum unique is its combination of light weight and high strength, making it ideal for a myriad of applications, from kitchen foil to aerospace engineering. Aluminum only naturally occurs as one isotope, e^{{27}{Al}}, meaning it has a stable mass that doesn’t vary like those of some other elements. This feature simplifies the calculations involving its atomic mass, as it is approximately 26.98 amu. Besides its use in everyday items, aluminum is revered for its recycling capabilities. It's 100% recyclable and retains its properties indefinitely. This makes it a champion for sustainable practices, highlighting its importance not just in science, but also in ecological stewardship.