Chapter 4, Problem 76A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The use of Dalton’s atomic theory to elaborate the law of conservation of mass is to be explained.

Concept Introduction : According to the rule of conservation of mass, mass is conserved during all physical and chemical processes. There is no formation or destruction of mass.

Answer to Problem 76A

Dalton’s atomic theory could explain the law of conservation of mass through his postulate that mass remains the same during the chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The makeup of matter always changes when a chemical reaction takes place.

The mass of the reactants and products are always equal during any chemical reaction.

In the law of conservation of mass, there is no mass lost or gained during the chemical or physical change.

According to the postulates of Dalton’s atomic theory, it is given that

1. Compounds can be created by the chemical or physical mixing of atoms from various elements in whole-number ratios.
2. Atoms can be linked, separated, or rearranged to form new combinations to produce chemical reactions. However, a chemical reaction never converts one element's atoms into those of another element.

According to the law of conservation of mass, Dalton’s atom theory is explained that atoms of one element are converted into another through chemical reaction but the mass remains the same.