Question

Given that the only naturally occurring isotope of phosphorus is \({ }^{31} \mathrm{P},\) determine its mass from the periodic table.

Short answer

The mass of naturally occurring phosphorus- {'31'} P is approximately 30.97 u.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Isotopes

Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons and therefore different masses. An element can have multiple isotopes, but some elements naturally occur with only one stable isotope.

Identify the Element

The exercise involves phosphorus, which is a chemical element on the periodic table represented by the symbol 'P'.

Locate Phosphorus on the Periodic Table

Find phosphorus on the periodic table. It is typically found in group 15 and period 3.

Find the Atomic Mass of Phosphorus

The atomic mass displayed on the periodic table for phosphorus accounts for its isotopes, though phosphorus has only one stable isotope, {'31'} P. Look for the atomic mass number listed along with the element symbol 'P'.

Extract the Mass Number

The atomic mass of phosphorus as found on the periodic table is approximately 30.97 atomic mass units (u). Given that the only naturally occurring isotope of phosphorus is {'31'} P, the mass of this isotope is approximately 30.97 u.

Key concepts

Atomic Mass

Atomic mass is a crucial concept in chemistry that refers to the average mass of an atom, taking into account all its isotopes and their abundance. - While individual isotopes have specific masses, the atomic mass you find on the periodic table is a weighted average. - For example, even though phosphorus has only one stable isotope, for elements with multiple isotopes, this average gives a general idea of the atom's mass.
Understanding atomic mass is essential because it provides insight into the behavior of atoms in chemical reactions and bonding. Always remember, the atomic mass accounts for the protons and neutrons in the atom's nucleus, while the electronic mass is negligible.

Periodic Table

The periodic table is a powerful tool for understanding chemical elements and their properties.

• The table organizes elements by increasing atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom.
• Elements are arranged in columns (groups) and rows (periods) based on shared properties and electron configurations. Generally, elements in the same group exhibit similar chemical behaviors.

For phosphorus, which resides in group 15 and period 3, its position informs us about its valence electrons and potential chemical reactions. The periodic table is fundamental in predicting molecular interactions and understanding the nature of elements including isotopes and atomic mass.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is a notable element found in group 15 of the periodic table, characterized by its vital role in biological systems.- It is represented by the symbol 'P' and has the atomic number 15. - This element is most recognized for its presence in DNA, RNA, and ATP, which are crucial for life processes.
Phosphorus typically exists in several forms, but the most common naturally occurring isotope is \({}^{31}\mathrm{P}\) with an atomic mass of about 30.97 atomic mass units. This stable isotope makes up 100% of phosphorus found in nature, thus having practical importance in fields ranging from medicine to agriculture. Understanding phosphorus, its atomic characteristics, and how it interacts within compounds is essential for applications across multiple scientific domains.