In relation to relative atomic mass, how is it generally measured?

The correct method for measuring relative atomic mass is based on the mass of an atom compared to 1/12th the mass of a carbon-12 atom. This standardization provides a reliable reference point since carbon-12 is one of the most stable isotopes and is widely used in scientific research and calculations. By defining relative atomic mass in this way, it allows for uniformity and consistency in comparing the masses of other elements.

The choice of carbon-12 is particularly significant because it is abundant in nature and provides a standardized value that simplifies calculations in chemistry. This approach aligns with the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) conventions, making it an internationally accepted measure for chemists. Thus, relative atomic masses assigned to elements are dimensionless quantities that reflect the weighted average of the masses of isotopes of an element relative to this benchmark of carbon-12.