To calculate the number of atoms in an element, you need to know the amount of the element present in moles. The number of atoms can then be determined using Avogadro's number, which is approximately 6.022 × 10^23 atoms/mol. The formula to calculate the number of atoms is as follows:
Number of atoms = Number of moles × Avogadro's number
Here's a step-by-step example to illustrate the calculation:
Determine the amount of the element in moles. This can be given in the problem or obtained by dividing the mass of the element by its molar mass. For example, let's say we have 2 moles of oxygen (O₂).
Use Avogadro's number (6.022 × 10^23 atoms/mol) to calculate the number of atoms. Multiply the number of moles by Avogadro's number: Number of atoms = 2 moles × (6.022 × 10^23 atoms/mol) = 1.2044 × 10^24 atoms
Therefore, in this example, there are approximately 1.2044 × 10^24 atoms of oxygen. Remember to adjust the calculation based on the number of moles you have for the specific element you're working with.