Final answer:
To find the mass of the sample, subtract the mass of the empty weigh boat (2.348g) from the combined mass of the weigh boat and sample (5.484g), which equals 3.136g. Thus, the mass of the sample is 3.136g.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you are determining the mass of a solid sample on a balance using a weigh boat, the procedure generally involves weighing the empty weigh boat first, then weighing it with the sample. The mass of the sample can be calculated by subtracting the mass of the empty weigh boat from the total mass of the weigh boat with the sample. In this case, the mass of the weigh boat is 2.348 g, and the mass of the weigh boat and sample is 5.484 g.
To find the mass of the sample alone, you subtract the mass of the weigh boat from the combined mass of the weigh boat and sample:
Mass of the sample = Mass of the weigh boat and sample - Mass of the weigh boat
Mass of the sample = 5.484 g - 2.348 g
Mass of the sample = 3.136 g
Therefore, the mass of the solid sample on its own is 3.136 grams. When measuring mass, it is important to be aware of significant figures and measure with the correct precision based on the limitations of the balance used.