A mass spectrometer records two distinct peaks for the singly charged cations of an unknown element M at $m/z = 69$ and $m/z = 71$, with relative isotopic abundances of 60% and 40%, respectively. Spectroscopic data also confirm that a neutral atom of the lighter isotope, $^{69}\text{M}$, has 38 neutrons in its nucleus. Based on this mass spectrometry data and atomic structure principles, which statement is correct regarding element M and its heavier isotope?

A) The relative atomic mass of element M is 70.0, and an atom of $^{71}\text{M}$ contains 38 protons and 33 neutrons.

B) The relative atomic mass of element M is 70.2, and an atom of $^{71}\text{M}$ contains 31 protons and 40 neutrons.

C) The relative atomic mass of element M is 69.8, and an atom of $^{71}\text{M}$ contains 31 protons and 40 neutrons.

D) The relative atomic mass of element M is 69.8, and an atom of $^{71}\text{M}$ contains 38 protons and 33 neutrons.

Mass spectrometry of elements Transitional Reasoning Practice

Chemistry · Atomic Structure · Chemistry · Atoms & Subatomic Particles

1 Chemistry practice questions on Mass spectrometry of elements. Questions that build towards applied reasoning.

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