Multiple Choice
How does a balanced chemical equation demonstrate the law of conservation of mass?
44
views
2. Atoms & Elements
Law of Conservation of Mass
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
The law of conservation of mass is best described as which of the following statements?
A
Matter can be converted entirely into energy in ordinary chemical reactions.
B
Mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.
C
Energy is conserved during physical and chemical changes.
D
The total number of atoms increases during a chemical reaction.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the law of conservation of mass states that in a chemical reaction, matter cannot be created or destroyed.
Recognize that this means the total mass of the reactants must equal the total mass of the products.
Note that this law implies the number of atoms remains constant during a chemical reaction, although they may be rearranged.
Distinguish this from energy conservation, which is a separate principle stating that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.
Conclude that the correct description of the law of conservation of mass is: 'Mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.'
1:48mWatch next
Master Law of Conservation of Mass with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Law of Conservation of Mass practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations