Which arrangement is most suitable for reliably testing the law of conservation of mass?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Measuring the total mass of the complete closed system, including the container, before and after the reaction
According to the law of conservation of mass, the total mass of reactants and products remains the same if no substance enters or leaves the system. In a closed system, any gas produced is retained; therefore, measuring the mass of the entire system, including the container, before and after the reaction provides a reliable test. In an open container, gas may escape and make the measured mass appear lower. A colour change or the mass of only a precipitate does not represent the mass of the whole system.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Measuring the total mass of the complete closed system, including the container, before and after the reaction
Why is this the correct answer?
According to the law of conservation of mass, the total mass of reactants and products remains the same if no substance enters or leaves the system. In a closed system, any gas produced is retained; therefore, measuring the mass of the entire system, including the container, before and after the reaction provides a reliable test. In an open container, gas may escape and make the measured mass appear lower. A colour change or the mass of only a precipitate does not represent the mass of the whole system.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
