Multiple Choice
Which statement best explains why the law of conservation of mass is more relevant to chemical changes than to physical changes?
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2. Atoms & Elements
Law of Conservation of Mass
Multiple Choice
Which of the following correctly describes the law of conservation of matter?
A
Matter can disappear if the reaction occurs in an open system.
B
Matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction; it can only change forms.
C
Matter can be created during a chemical reaction if energy is added.
D
Matter is always destroyed during combustion reactions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that the law of conservation of matter states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction; it can only change forms.
Recognize that in any chemical reaction, the total mass of reactants must equal the total mass of products, regardless of the system being open or closed.
Note that matter does not disappear or get created during reactions; instead, atoms are rearranged to form new substances.
Identify that statements suggesting matter can be created or destroyed during reactions contradict this fundamental law.
Conclude that the correct description is: Matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction; it can only change forms.
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