The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. It determines the identity and the chemical properties of an element. For example, hydrogen has an atomic number of 1, helium has an atomic number of 2, and carbon has an atomic number of 6.
Atomic mass is the sum of the masses of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom. It measures the weight of an atom in atomic mass units (AMU).
For example, hydrogen has an atomic mass of 1.0079 amu, helium has an atomic mass of 4.0026 amu, and carbon has an atomic mass of 12.011 amu.
Difference Between Atomic Mass and Atomic Number
| Aspect | Atomic Mass | Atomic Number |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Associated with the number of neutrons and protons in the nucleus of an element. | Refers to the number of protons present in an element’s nucleus. |
| Weight/Number | Represents the average weight of an element. | Indicates the total number of protons in the atom’s nucleus. |
| Notation | Denoted by the letter A. | Represented by the letter Z. |
| Role in Identification | Cannot define the type of element. | Primarily helps in classification and identification of an element. |
| Relation to Isotopes | Used to classify different isotopes of the same element. | Isotopes share the same atomic number. |
| Measurement | Measured in atomic mass unit (amu). | A digit used to organize elements in the periodic table. |
Gallium, germanium, and antimony hold a crucial place in the world today as they are mostly used in computers, defence, and renewable energy technology. While germanium is important for low-carbon technologies such as solar cells,semiconductor wafersmade by using gallium arsenide instead of silicon can run at higher frequencies and are heat resistant, according to Wafer World Inc., a leading American company.
Semiconductors, also known as microchips or integrated circuits, are the ‘new oil’ as they are practically inside every essential product these days — from household appliances to sophisticated defence systems, mobile phones to cars, toys to high-end luxury products.
Moreover, germanium is also used in infrared technology, fibre optic cables and solar cells.
Antimony is used in bullets and other weaponry.
China produces nearly all the world’s supply of critical minerals needed to make advanced technologies including semiconductors — it produces 60% of the world’s germanium and 80% of gallium.
Therefore, it is now using the export ban to hit the US.
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