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Multiple Choice
Based on atomic mass, is mercury a heavier element than tin?
A
Yes; mercury has a greater atomic mass than tin.
B
It cannot be determined without knowing their atomic numbers.
C
No; tin has a greater atomic mass than mercury.
D
No; mercury and tin have the same atomic mass.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the atomic masses of mercury and tin by referring to the periodic table. Atomic mass is usually given in atomic mass units (amu) and represents the average mass of an element's atoms, considering isotopic distribution.
Locate mercury (Hg) on the periodic table and note its atomic mass. Similarly, locate tin (Sn) and note its atomic mass.
Compare the two atomic masses directly to determine which element is heavier based on atomic mass.
Understand that atomic number represents the number of protons and does not directly indicate atomic mass, so knowing atomic numbers alone is insufficient for this comparison.
Conclude which element is heavier by atomic mass based on the comparison made in step 3.