What is the atomic weight of cobalt?
The correct answer and explanation is:
The atomic weight of cobalt (Co) is approximately 58.9334 amu (atomic mass units).
Cobalt is a transition metal found in Group 9 of the periodic table. Its atomic weight is based on the weighted average of the isotopes of cobalt and their relative abundance. The two most stable isotopes of cobalt are Co-59 and Co-58. Co-59 is the most abundant isotope, making up about 100% of naturally occurring cobalt, and it has an atomic mass of 58.9332 amu.
The atomic weight is calculated as the average of these isotopes’ masses, taking into account their natural abundance. For cobalt, since Co-59 is the only significant isotope, the atomic weight is essentially based on this isotope. Atomic weights can vary slightly depending on the isotope composition in different sources, but for cobalt, the standard atomic weight is taken as 58.9334 amu.
Atomic weight is important because it helps determine the mass of a mole of a substance. It is a key factor in calculations involving stoichiometry, such as determining the amount of cobalt required in a chemical reaction or calculating its role in forming compounds. Cobalt compounds, such as cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and cobalt sulfate (CoSO4), are widely used in industrial applications, including battery technology, catalysts, and alloys.
In summary, cobalt’s atomic weight of 58.9334 amu reflects the mass of a mole of cobalt atoms based on the weighted average of its isotopes. The value plays an essential role in understanding cobalt’s chemical behavior and its use in various scientific and industrial applications.