Question

the equation below models the burning of methane. ch₄ + 2o₂ = co₂ + 2h₂o. which two statements correctly explain how this model demonstrates the law of conservation of mass? select two correct answers. the total number of hydrogen atoms is equal on both sides of the equation. additional atoms are created during the reaction to form new products, so mass increases. the same number of carbon atoms is present in the reactants and products. atoms are rearranged into new substances, but some atoms are lost in the process.

Explanation:

The law of conservation of mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. In a balanced chemical equation like $CH_4 + 2O_2=CO_2 + 2H_2O$, the number of atoms of each element is the same on both sides of the equation. This shows that atoms are just rearranged during the reaction, not created or lost.

Answer:

• The total number of hydrogen atoms is equal on both sides of the equation.
• The same number of carbon atoms is present in the reactants and products.