Question

Assume the following three isotopes of element Q exist: 248Q, 252Q, and 259 Q. If the atomic mass of Q is 258.63 amu, which of its isotopes is the most abundant? - 252Q - They are all equally abundant - 259Q - 248Q

Answer 1

The most abundant isotope of element Q is 252Q.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most abundant isotope of element Q is 252Q.

To determine the most abundant isotope, we compare the atomic mass of each isotope to the average atomic mass of Q, which is 258.63 amu. Since 252Q is closest in mass to the average atomic mass, it is the most abundant isotope. The atomic mass given for element Q is 258.63 amu. Considering the isotopes 248Q, 252Q, and 259Q, the isotope whose mass is closest to the average atomic mass is the most abundant. Since the atomic mass of Q (258.63 amu) is closest to the mass of 259Q, we can deduce that 259Q is the most abundant isotope of element Q.

Therefore, 252Q is the correct answer.