Multiple Choice
In the classification of matter, granite is best described as which of the following?
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3. Matter and Energy
Classification of Matter
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In the classification of matter, can an element be broken down into a simpler substance by chemical means?
A
Yes; an element can be chemically broken down into simpler substances.
B
No; an element cannot be chemically broken down into a simpler substance.
C
No; but it can be broken down into simpler substances by physical changes only.
D
Yes; an element can be separated into simpler substances by filtration.
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the definition of an element in chemistry: an element is a pure substance consisting of only one type of atom and cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.
Understand that chemical means involve chemical reactions that change the composition of substances, such as decomposition or chemical separation.
Recognize that elements are the simplest form of matter in terms of chemical composition, so they cannot be chemically decomposed into simpler substances.
Note that physical changes (like filtration or phase changes) do not alter the chemical identity of a substance, so they cannot break down an element into simpler substances either.
Conclude that the correct statement is: 'No; an element cannot be chemically broken down into a simpler substance.'
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