Atomic Physics - rest mass of Deuterium

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the rest mass of the deuterium nucleus, questioning whether it can be derived from the mass of hydrogen by simply doubling it. The textbook states the rest mass of deuterium as 3.34330 x 10^-27 kg, while the proposed calculation yields 3.34676 x 10^-27 kg. The key issue identified is that deuterium consists of one proton and one neutron, not two protons, leading to a slight mass difference. This highlights the importance of using accurate nuclear composition rather than a simplified approach. Understanding these nuances is essential for accurate calculations in atomic physics.
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!
 
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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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