What is the molar mass of carbon (C)?

• A. 16.00 g/mol
• B. 1.01 g/mol
• C. 12.01 g/mol
• D. 6.02 g/mol

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the molar mass of an element is the mass of one mole of its atoms, usually expressed in grams per mole (g/mol).
2. Recognize that the molar mass corresponds to the average atomic mass of the element as found on the periodic table, which accounts for the natural isotopic distribution.
3. Look up the atomic mass of carbon (C) on the periodic table, which is approximately 12.01 g/mol.
4. Note that the other values given (16.00 g/mol, 1.01 g/mol, 6.02 g/mol) correspond to the molar masses of oxygen, hydrogen, and Avogadro's number respectively, so they are not correct for carbon.
5. Conclude that the molar mass of carbon is 12.01 g/mol based on its atomic mass.