Question

The original atomic weights is based on the comparison of hydrogen?

A) Comparison of carbon atoms.
B) Comparison of hydrogen atoms.
C) Comparison of oxygen atoms.
D) Comparison of nitrogen atoms.

Answer 1

The original atomic weights were based on a comparison to hydrogen. Calculations based on the number of protons were not valid for determining atomic weights.

Step-by-step explanation:

The original atomic weights were based on a comparison to hydrogen. The atomic weight of an element is the weighted mass of all the naturally occurring isotopes of that element. Scientists initially assumed that the weight of an atom was essentially that of the protons, with electrons contributing almost nothing to the atomic weight. However, after the discovery of the proton, it was realized that calculations based on the number of protons were not valid for determining atomic weights.