Need help on this problem.
The mass of a proton is about 1.7 x 10^-24g. The mass of a neutron is about the same as a proton. The nucleus of an atom of carbon has 6 protons and 6 neutrons. The mass of the nucleus is about 2 x 10^-26 units. what is the best choice for the units this measurement is given in: grams, kilograms, or tons?
It's kilograms
To determine the best choice for the units of the given measurement, we can compare the size of the measurement with the sizes of grams, kilograms, and tons.
Given that the mass of the nucleus is about 2 x 10^-26 units, we can convert this measurement to grams, kilograms, and tons to compare:
1 gram = 10^-3 kilograms
1 ton = 10^3 kilograms
Converting the given measurement:
2 x 10^-26 units = 2 x 10^-26 grams
Now let's compare the sizes:
1. Grams: The given measurement is approximately 2 x 10^-26 grams. Grams are suitable for smaller masses, such as those of atoms and subatomic particles. However, this conversion is already in grams, so it may not be the best choice.
2. Kilograms: To convert to kilograms, we need to multiply the given measurement by the conversion factor of 10^-3.
2 x 10^-26 grams * 10^-3 = 2 x 10^-29 kilograms
The measurement in kilograms is much smaller than 1 gram, so it is not an appropriate choice.
3. Tons: To convert to tons, we need to multiply the given measurement by the conversion factor of 10^3.
2 x 10^-26 grams * 10^3 = 2 x 10^-23 tons
The measurement in tons is much larger than 1 gram, so it is not an appropriate choice either.
Based on the comparison, the best choice for the units this measurement is given in is grams.