Question

the molecules on the left represent ch₄ and o₂.
combustion of methane
does this chemical reaction explain conservation of matter and why?
a yes, because atoms are the same in the reactants and products.
b no, because atoms are not the same in the reactants and products.
c yes, because molecules are the same in the reactants and products.
d no, because molecules are not the same in the reactants and products.

Explanation:

Step1: Count atoms in reactants

In the reactants, there is \(1\) blue (let's assume it's \(C\)), \(4\) gray (let's assume \(H\)), and \(4\) orange (\(O\)) atoms.

Step2: Count atoms in products

In the products, there is \(1\) blue (\(C\)), \(4\) gray (\(H\)), and \(4\) orange (\(O\)) atoms.

Step3: Check conservation of atoms

Since the number of each type of atom (carbon, hydrogen, oxygen) is the same in reactants and products, the law of conservation of matter (which states that atoms are neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction) is followed.

Answer:

A. Yes, because atoms are the same in the reactants and products.