The Definition of Atomic Volume and How to Calculate It

The Definition of Atomic Volume and How to Calculate It The atomic volume is the volume one mole of an element occupies at room temperature. Atomic volume is typically given in cubic centimeters per mole: cc/mol. The atomic volume is a calculated value using the atomic weight and the density using the formula: atomic volume atomic weight/density Alternatives Another way to calculate atomic volume is to use the atomic or ionic radius of an atom (depending on whether or not you are dealing with an ion). This calculation is based on the idea of an atom as a sphere, which isnt precisely accurate. However, its a decent approximation. In this case, the formula for the volume of a sphere is used, where r is the atomic radius: volume (4/3)(Ï€)(r3) Example For example, a hydrogen atom has an atomic radius of 53 picometers. The volume of a hydrogen atom would be: volume (4/3)(Ï€)(533) volume 623000 cubic picometers (approximately)