Memorizing the atomic mass and atomic number of elements is not necessary for everyone, but it can be beneficial depending on your field of study or profession. Here's a breakdown:
Students of chemistry: If you are studying chemistry or a related field, memorizing the atomic mass and atomic number of elements is generally important. These values help in understanding the periodic table, predicting chemical behavior, balancing chemical equations, and performing calculations involving moles, mass, and other properties of elements.
Scientists and researchers: Professionals working in scientific research, particularly in fields like chemistry, physics, materials science, or biology, may need to frequently refer to atomic masses and atomic numbers. While exact memorization is not always necessary, having a good understanding of these values can significantly facilitate research work.
Everyday knowledge: For most individuals in their daily lives, memorizing atomic masses and atomic numbers is not essential. Basic knowledge about a few common elements (such as carbon, oxygen, or hydrogen) can be useful in understanding certain concepts, but you can always refer to the periodic table or online resources for specific details.
In general, understanding the concept of atomic number (the number of protons in an atom's nucleus) and atomic mass (the average mass of an atom) is more important than memorizing specific values. The periodic table serves as a valuable resource, allowing you to look up atomic numbers, atomic masses, and other properties whenever needed.