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How are properties of matter used at a recycling center?

a) Properties like density and composition help in sorting recyclable materials efficiently.

b) Matter is transformed into energy to power recycling machinery.

c) Recycling centers only deal with organic matter, converting it into compost.

d) Properties of matter are not relevant at recycling centers; all materials are treated the same way.

User Sutee
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

At a recycling center, properties of matter such as density and composition are essential for efficiently sorting different materials. These properties allow for the effective separation and processing of items like plastics, metals, and glass, facilitating the recycling process.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a recycling center, the properties of matter play a crucial role, specifically for sorting recyclable materials. Materials are not just lumped together; they are sorted based on various properties, such as density and composition. For instance, different plastics may be separated because they have different densities or compositions, which affect how they can be recycled. Metals can be sorted using magnetic properties, as ferrous metals (which contain iron) are magnetic and non-ferrous metals are not. Glass can be sorted into different colors since the composition changes depending on the additives used to color it.

The option that best fits the role of matter's properties at a recycling center is: 'a) Properties like density and composition help in sorting recyclable materials efficiently.' Unlike suggestion 'b', matter is not typically transformed into energy to power machinery at recycling centers, and while 'c' does happen in some places, not all recycling centers focus solely on organic matter for composting. Lastly, 'd' is incorrect as properties of matter are highly relevant to the recycling process, as various materials are not treated the same way.

User Jamie Howarth
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