Answer:
To ensure the law of conservation of mass is demonstrated, you can conduct an experiment that involves a chemical reaction where the total mass of the reactants is equal to the total mass of the products. Here's an example experiment showcasing this principle:
Materials needed:
- A balance or scale
- Two clear containers
- Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
- Vinegar (acetic acid)
- A balloon
Procedure:
1. Set up the balance or scale and make sure it is calibrated properly.
2. Place one of the clear containers on the balance and record its mass.
3. Add a measured amount of baking soda to the container and record the new total mass.
4. Attach the balloon to the mouth of the container without allowing any gas to escape.
5. Carefully pour a measured amount of vinegar into the balloon through the container's opening without mixing it with the baking soda.
6. Observe the reaction between the vinegar and baking soda. The reaction will produce carbon dioxide gas, which will inflate the balloon.
7. Once the reaction is complete and the balloon has stopped inflating, carefully remove it from the container.
8. Place the second clear container on the balance and record its mass.
9. Pour the contents of the balloon (carbon dioxide gas) into the second container.
10. Weigh the second container with the carbon dioxide gas and record the new total mass.
Observation and Conclusion:
By comparing the initial mass of the baking soda and the vinegar with the final mass of the carbon dioxide gas and the container, you will observe that the total mass of the reactants (baking soda and vinegar) is equal to the total mass of the products (carbon dioxide gas and container). This demonstrates the law of conservation of mass, which states that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction, only rearranged.
By carefully measuring the masses before and after the reaction, you visually and quantitatively show that the total mass remains constant throughout the process. This experiment reinforces the fundamental principle of the law of conservation of mass, emphasizing that matter is conserved in chemical reactions, even when it undergoes changes in form or state.