High School Where does the figure for a proton's rest mass come from?

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The figure for a proton's rest mass, 1.67262171 x 10^-27 kg, is an experimental result rather than a derived calculation. This value is expressed in scientific notation, which simplifies the representation of very small numbers. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the context of this number, emphasizing that it is not merely a calculation but a precise measurement. The Penning Trap is mentioned as a method used in determining proton mass. Overall, the conversation clarifies the distinction between numerical representation and the actual mass of a proton.
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The proton rest mass value calculation of
The proton rest mass value calculation of 1.672,621,71?, times 10 inverse 27 kg, where does the figure originate from? What kind of figure is it?
 
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1.672,621,71x 10-27 is not a calculation; it is just a (very small) number.

1.672,621,71x 10-27kg is the mass of a proton.

Do you mean how did we determine how much a proton masses? Did you try Googling that to see where it leads you?

Hint: Read up a little on "Penning Trap".
 
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DaveC426913 said:
1.672,621,71x 10-27 is not a calculation; it is just a (very small) number.

1.672,621,71x 10-27kg is the mass of a proton.

Do you mean how did we determine how much a proton masses? Did you try Googling that to see where it leads you?

Hint: Read up a little on "Penning Trap".
It is a calculation. See that multiplication symbol in-between?
 
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recniabsal said:
It is a calculation. See that multiplication symbol in-between?
No, it's a NUMBER. Are you not familiar with exponential notation? Without units it is, as Dave said, just a number. When you add the units, it the mass of a proton, which is an experimental result, not something derived from something else.
 
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recniabsal said:
It is a calculation. See that multiplication symbol in-between?
It is a notation. Specifically, scientific notation - a way of conveniently representing large and small numbers.

2x103 is the same as 2,000.
2x109 = 2,000,000,000.

It is more compact than writing
"A proton masses 0.000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,001,672,621,71kg," but it is exactly equivalent to 1.672,621,71x 10-27kg.
 
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