Chemistry: The Central Science (13th Edition)

Published by Prentice Hall
ISBN 10: 0321910419
ISBN 13: 978-0-32191-041-7

Chapter 2 - Atoms, Molecules, and Ions - Exercises - Page 75: 2.33b

Answer

This is not the atomic mass of an individual isotope, but rather is the average mass of boron isotopes.

Work Step by Step

An individual isotope of boron will have a mass that is a whole number. However, when the atomic mass of boron is reported as 10.81 amu, this number does not represent the atomic mass of one boron isotope but rather the average mass of all boron isotopes.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.