Atomic Physics - rest mass of Deuterium

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SUMMARY

The rest mass of the Deuterium nucleus is definitively calculated as 3.34330 x 10^-27 kg, as stated in standard textbooks. The attempt to derive this value by doubling the rest mass of hydrogen (1.67338 x 10^-27 kg) results in an incorrect calculation of 3.34676 x 10^-27 kg. The discrepancy arises because a Deuterium nucleus consists of one proton and one neutron, not two protons, leading to a slight difference in mass due to the binding energy and mass of the neutron.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic structure, specifically protons and neutrons
  • Familiarity with the concept of rest mass in nuclear physics
  • Basic knowledge of mass-energy equivalence
  • Proficiency in using scientific notation for large and small numbers
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of binding energy in nuclear physics
  • Study the differences between isotopes, focusing on Deuterium and Hydrogen
  • Learn about mass defect and its calculation in nuclear reactions
  • Explore advanced topics in atomic physics, such as nuclear decay and fusion
USEFUL FOR

Students studying nuclear physics, educators teaching atomic structure, and researchers interested in isotopic mass calculations.

joeykeys
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Homework Statement



Calculate the rest mass of Deuterium nucleus.

Homework Equations



Is it correct to calculate its mass using hydrogen?
i.e. 2*rest mass of hydrogen?..

The Attempt at a Solution



As stated in textbook,
the rest mass of deuterium = 3.34330*10^-27 kg

If it is calculated from hydrogen (my "theory" as above) = 2*(1.67338*10^-27) = 3.34676*10^-27 kg


My question is..
Is my theory correct or there is something wrong with my concept?..
Is there any correct ways to find out the mass of deuterium without looking from textbook's data?

Thank you!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I think the problem arises in the fact that a Deuterium nucleus is a Proton and a Neutron, not 2 Protons, and the masses are slightly different.
 

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