Question

Which statement in Dalton’s atomic theory is supported by the law of conservation of mass?

a. Atoms of different elements combine in simple whole-number ratios.
b. Atoms are indivisible and indestructible.
c. All atoms of a given element are identical in mass and properties.
d. Atoms are created and destroyed in chemical reactions.

Answer 1

The statement from Dalton's atomic theory supported by the law of conservation of mass is that atoms are indivisible and indestructible, indicating that atoms are neither created nor destroyed in chemical reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement in Dalton's atomic theory that is supported by the law of conservation of mass is: 'b. Atoms are indivisible and indestructible.' This aspect of Dalton's theory aligns with the law of conservation of mass, which states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. Therefore, as per Dalton, during a chemical change, the total mass of matter present remains constant because atoms, the building blocks of matter, are not created or destroyed but merely rearranged.