1. Identify the elements and their atomic masses:
* H (Hydrogen): 1.008 amu (atomic mass unit)
* C (Carbon): 12.011 amu
* O (Oxygen): 15.999 amu
2. Count the number of atoms of each element in the formula:
* H: 2 atoms
* C: 1 atom
* O: 2 atoms
3. Calculate the total atomic mass:
* (2 atoms of H * 1.008 amu/atom) + (1 atom of C * 12.011 amu/atom) + (2 atoms of O * 15.999 amu/atom) = 46.025 amu
Therefore, the atomic mass of formic acid (HCOOH) is approximately 46.025 amu.
