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? asked in Science & MathematicsChemistry · 9 years ago

Chemistry isotope abundance question?

There are two naturally occurring isotopes of chlorine. 35Cl has a mass of 34.9689 amu. 37Cl has a mass of 36.9659 amu. Determine the abundance of each isotope. (periodic Cl has a mass of 35.453amu)

Where do I start on this? I tried setting up an algebra problem as 35Cl(x)+37Cl(y)=35.453amu (with masses) but then I got stuck again.

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  • Chris
    9 years ago
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    For isotopic abundance, we have to set up an algebraic equation. The y variable in your equation isn't necessary. The equation should look like this:

    34.9689(x) + 39.9659(1-x) = 35.453(1)

    The variable x will give you the abundance of 35Cl, so you can solve for the abundance of 37Cl by using 1-x.

    Source(s): AP Chem
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