Final answer:
The mass of the final solution would be reported as C. 301.8g. So Option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
When water and salt are mixed, they form a solution where the mass is not simply the sum of the masses of the individual components due to the formation of a homogeneous mixture. To calculate the mass of the final solution, add the mass of water and salt:
Mass of final solution = Mass of water + Mass of salt
Mass of final solution = 200.4 g + 101.42 g
Mass of final solution = 301.82 g
So, the calculated mass of the final solution is 301.82g. However, in scientific reporting, it is common practice to round off the result to an appropriate number of significant figures. In this case, since both the mass of water and salt are given to three significant figures, the final answer should be reported with the same precision. Thus, the mass of the final solution is reported as 301.8g (option C), considering three significant figures in the calculation.
It is crucial to follow the rules of significant figures to maintain the accuracy and precision of the reported result in scientific contexts. In this case, rounding off to the correct number of significant figures ensures that the final answer reflects the precision of the measurements provided for the water and salt masses.