how would you calculate how many atoms there are in your body?

Answer 1

If we know Avogadro's number (the number of hydrogen atoms to a gram of hydrogen), then we simply figure out the average atomic weight of the atoms in the body. Most of the body is water, H2O, with an average atomic weight of 18/3 = 6. All the other stuff, carbon at 12, calcium for bone, etc. is heaveier than this average. So I am estimating the average atomic weight at 8. So, take weight in grams, multiply by A, and divide by 8.

Answer 2

There is not a set formula for that.....even calculation of molecules....In the clinical lab, we do measure RELATIVE amount of molecular substance, not atoms....(molar or molal concentration of substance so and so, per mililiter, 100 ml etc), ...number of atoms in a given body...(would vary enormously from one to anonther)
Whatever use that knowledge may carry???\
Your question is a very interesting though, however, and with utmost respect....if there is not a set formul for that....what would that infromation bring to our knowledge, or what is pte practical use of such/////?
I am curious.........

Answer 3

You can get an approximation by looking up the percentage of each major element in the body. Here is one source: http://chemistry.about.com/cs/howthingswork/f/blbodyelements.htm

Then pick an overall mass for a typical body, and compute the masses of each element. Find the moles of each element by dividing its mass in the body by its atomic mass. Each mole will contain Avogadro's number (6.02*10^23) of atoms.

Answer 4

It is IMPOSSIBLE to do so. Trust me! You cannot even calculate the number of atoms in a single cell.

TH, PhD
Genetics, Cell Biology and Development.