The table provides isotopic data for selenium. Based on this information, the weighted average atomic mass of the element is approximately $$80.2$$ amu. Which of the following statements best explains this value?
Isotopic Data for Selenium
| Isotope | Mass (amu) | Abundance (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Se-78 | 78 | 10 |
| Se-80 | 80 | 70 |
| Se-82 | 82 | 20 |
Because each isotope contributes equally to the total mass regardless of abundance, the resulting average atomic mass is simply the median value, which does not align with $$80.2$$ amu.
Since the isotope with mass $$80$$ constitutes the majority of the sample, its high abundance drives the weighted average atomic mass to be close to $$80.2$$ amu.
The weighted average must be lower than $$80.2$$ amu due to the contribution of the lighter isotope, Se-78, despite its lower abundance.
Because the atomic masses span from $$78$$ to $$82$$, the average atomic mass must be exactly the arithmetic mean of these values, namely $$80$$ amu.
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