Question

the molecules on the left represent $ch_4$ and $o_2$.
combustion of methane
does this chemical reaction explain conservation of matter and why?
oa yes, because atoms are the same in the reactants and products.
ob no, because atoms are not the same in the reactants and products.
oc yes, because molecules are the same in the reactants and products.
od no, because molecules are not the same in the reactants and products.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze conservation of matter principle

Conservation of matter states that atoms are conserved in a chemical reaction. Molecules can change (reactants vs products), but atoms remain the same.

Step2: Evaluate each option

• Option A: Correct. Atoms are same in reactants ($CH_4$ has C and H; $O_2$ has O) and products (e.g., $CO_2$ has C and O; $H_2O$ has H and O).
• Option B: Incorrect. Atoms are same.
• Option C: Incorrect. Molecules change (e.g., $CH_4$ and $O_2$ are reactants; $CO_2$ and $H_2O$ are products).
• Option D: Incorrect. Molecule - to - molecule comparison is not the basis for conservation of matter (atom conservation is).

Answer:

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