Do we have an atomic standard of mass? Why?

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Atomic Mass**: The mass of an atom is extremely small, typically on the order of \(10^{-20}\) grams. This indicates that individual atoms are much lighter than macroscopic objects we typically measure.

2. **Precision of Measurement**: To measure such small masses accurately, we would need a weighing scale that can detect changes in mass at the scale of \(10^{-20}\) grams. However, current weighing technologies do not have the capability to measure such minute quantities with the required precision.

3. **Conclusion**: Due to the extremely small mass of atoms and the limitations of current measurement technology, we do not have an atomic standard of mass. Instead, mass is often measured in relative terms, such as atomic mass units (amu), which are based on the mass of carbon-12.

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