The dalton or unified atomic mass unit (symbol: Da, amu or u) is a unit of measurement for measuring the mass of atoms, equalling ¹⁄₁₂ of the mass of the carbon-12 isotope, the most abundant form of carbon atoms in nature.[1]

History

The unit is named after English chemist and physicist John Dalton (1766 – 1844). 1 atomic mass unit is approximately 1.66 × 10-27 kg, or 1.66 × 10-24 g.[2]

Atomic physics

In atomic physics, 1 amu can be expressed as roughly 931 MeV (M = 106, 1 eV ≈ 1.60 × 10-19 J) due to mass-energy equivalence, illustrated by ΔE = Δmc2.[3][4]

References

  1. "Atomic mass unit | Definition, Description, Uses, & Facts". Britannica. November 11, 2024. Retrieved November 30, 2024.
  2. "Converted number: Conversion from eV to J". National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2022. Retrieved November 30, 2024.
  3. "Nuclear Binding Energy and the Mass Defect". Boston University. Retrieved November 30, 2024.