Answer:
O-16 isotope is most likely to have the greatest abundance in nature.
Explanation:
Atomic mass of an isotopes of oxygen elements:
- O-16: 15.995 amu
- O-17: 16.999 amu
- O-18: 17.999 amu
Average atomic mass of an oxygen atom = 15.994 amu
Isotope with the value of atomic mass closest to the average atomic mass of the oxygen atom will have the greatest abundance in nature. As it will be found in much more greater extent in nature.
Where as isotope which is least close to the average atomic mass will have less abundance in nature.
O-16 isotope is most likely to have the greatest abundance in nature.
15.995 amu ≈ 15.994 amu
