Question

Experiment 5: %0D%0A%0D%0A%0D%0A%0D%0A8. Explain why the measured masses above violate the Law of Conservation of Mass. Use specific language and evidence from the reaction to support your answer. (Write in complete sentences using good grammar and spelling.)

Answer 1

The Law of Conservation of Mass states that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction; the total mass of the reactants must equal the total mass of the products. If the measured masses from Experiment 5 show discrepancies that indicate a loss or gain of mass, it suggests a violation of this fundamental law.

For example, if the combined mass of the reactants is greater than the mass of the products after the reaction, it indicates that some mass has seemingly disappeared. This could occur due to gas being released during the reaction, which may not have been captured or accounted for in the final mass measurement. Conversely, if the mass of the products exceeds that of the reactants, it might suggest external factors, such as contamination or unintended addition of substances during the experiment.

In either case, the measured masses indicate a failure to adhere to the Law of Conservation of Mass, as they demonstrate that mass is not accounted for correctly. To faithfully uphold this law in a laboratory setting, it is crucial to ensure all products and reactants, including gases, are contained and measured accurately throughout the reaction process.