What is the approximate number of atoms in a bacterium?  Assume that the average mass of an atom in the bacterium is 10 times the mass of a hydrogen atom.  The mass of a hydrogen atom is approximately 10^27 kg.  The mass of a bacterium is approximately 10^15 kg.

To estimate the number of atoms in a bacterium, we'll use the following information:

- Mass of a hydrogen atom (\( m_H \)) = \( 10^{-27} \) kg
- Mass of a bacterium (\( m_B \)) = \( 10^{-15} \) kg
- Average mass of an atom in the bacterium = 10 times the mass of a hydrogen atom = \( 10 \times m_H = 10^{-26} \) kg

The number of atoms (\( N \)) in the bacterium can be calculated by dividing the mass of the bacterium by the average mass of an atom:

\[
N = \frac{m_B}{\text{Average mass of an atom}}
\]

Substituting the given values:

\[
N = \frac{10^{-15} \, \text{kg}}{10^{-26} \, \text{kg}} = 10^{11}
\]

So, the approximate number of atoms in a bacterium is \( 10^{11} \).

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions:

1. How does the mass of a bacterium compare to the mass of other microorganisms?
2. What factors could affect the average mass of an atom in a bacterium?
3. How does the number of atoms in a bacterium relate to its size and structure?
4. What is the significance of using the mass of a hydrogen atom as a reference?
5. How do atomic masses influence the physical and chemical properties of cells?

**Tip:** When estimating large quantities in scientific contexts, breaking down the problem using approximations can lead to quick and insightful results.

Learn how to estimate the number of atoms in a bacterium using mass comparisons. Understand the relationship between the mass of a bacterium and the average mass of an atom. Explore the calculation method and its significance in microbiology.

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