Calculating the Mass Difference between a Proton and a Neutron

The mass of a proton is 1.673 x 10^-27 kg in scientific notation, while the mass of a neutron is 1.675 x 10^-27 kg. To calculate the difference in mass between the two particles, we subtract the neutron's mass from the proton's mass and keep the same base.

Scientific notation is a way to express numbers that are very large or very small in a concise format. When dealing with extremely small values like the mass of subatomic particles, such as protons and neutrons, scientific notation becomes essential for easy calculation and understanding.

Calculating the Mass Difference

To calculate the mass difference between a proton and a neutron, we first need to express their masses in scientific notation. The proton has a mass of 1.673 x 10^-27 kg, and the neutron has a mass of 1.675 x 10^-27 kg.

To find the difference, we subtract the neutron's mass from the proton's mass. In this case, the calculation would be as follows:

Proton's Mass - Neutron's Mass = 1.673 x 10^-27 kg - 1.675 x 10^-27 kg

= 0.002 x 10^-27 kg

= 2.0 x 10^-29 kg

Therefore, the difference in mass between a proton and a neutron is 2.0 x 10^-29 kg in scientific notation. This difference is crucial in understanding the composition and properties of atomic nuclei and the fundamental forces that govern them.

Scientific notation simplifies complex calculations and provides a standardized format for representing values in various fields, including physics, chemistry, and astronomy. By converting the masses of subatomic particles into scientific notation, we can easily compare and analyze their properties and interactions.