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This Isotopes and Atomic Mass – Determination of the Average Atomic Mass of Pastium lab resource also includes:
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Sometimes modeling is the best approach to working with microscopic particles. A lab investigation models a fictional element using pasta. The setup uses three different pasta types to represent three different isotopes. Learners determine the mass and count of the pasta types to calculate the atomic mass of each isotope.
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Concepts
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Instructional Ideas
- Use as an introduction to the concept of an isotope
Classroom Considerations
- Assumes students are comfortable using percent calculations
- Allow time to collect and assemble materials
Pros
- Includes a set of reflection questions to conclude the activity
- Provides step-by-step calculations instructions
Cons
- None