Question

does the model shown in figure 1 follow the law of conservation of mass?
a no, because there are more oxygen atoms in the products than in the reactants
b no, because there are more molecules in the products than in the reactants
c yes, because the number of oxygen and hydrogen atoms in the reactants and products is equal
d yes, because the number of molecules in the reactants and products is equal

Explanation:

The law of conservation of mass states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. This means the number of atoms of each element in the reactants must equal the number of atoms of each element in the products. Option A is incorrect because if there were more oxygen atoms in products, it would violate the law. Option B is wrong as the number of molecules doesn't determine conservation of mass. Option D is incorrect because molecule count equality isn't the criterion. Option C is correct as atom - count equality (for each element) adheres to the law.

Answer:

C. yes, because the number of oxygen and hydrogen atoms in the reactants and products is equal