M

Mass Number

Expert Written | Fact Checked | Sources Cited | AllChemicals Editorial Team

What is Mass Number?

The mass number (A) of a nuclide is the total number of protons and neutrons (nucleons) in its nucleus. It is used together with the atomic number (Z) to specify a particular isotope: ᴬZX. For example, carbon-12 (¹²₆C) has mass number 12 (6 protons + 6 neutrons). The mass number is approximately equal to the atomic mass in atomic mass units.

Key Facts

Term Mass Number

Frequently Asked Questions

The mass number (A) of a nuclide is the total number of protons and neutrons (nucleons) in its nucleus. It is used together with the atomic number (Z) to specify a particular isotope: ᴬZX. For example, carbon-12 (¹²₆C) has mass number 12 (6 protons + 6 neutrons). The mass number is approximately equal to the atomic mass in atomic mass units.

More "M" Terms

View all "M" terms →
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.