Final answer:
The system of atomic mass units is based on assigning C-12 as weighing exactly 12 u and comparing other elements to it. An atomic mass unit (u) is defined as a mass equal to one twelfth the mass of an atom of carbon-12.
Step-by-step explanation:
The system of atomic mass units is based on assigning C-12 as weighing exactly 12 u and comparing other elements to it. An atomic mass unit (u) is defined as a mass equal to one twelfth the mass of an atom of carbon-12. The mass of an atom is affected by the interactions of particles within the nucleus.