Understanding the Law of Conservation of Mass: Mathematical and Verbal Proofs

In summary, the law of conservation of mass states that the total mass of substances remains constant in a closed system. However, this is not true for density, as changes in volume can result in different densities even with the same mass. This can be mathematically proven using the formula for density, where a change in volume will result in a different density despite the same mass.
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yjk91
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Homework Statement


The conservation of Mass states that the total mass of substances is the same before and after a chemical or physical change occurs. Explain why this is true in yet not true of density. Explanations to include mathematical as well as verbal proofs.


The Attempt at a Solution


The law of conservation of mass, also known as Lomonosov-Lavoisier law, states that the mass of substances in a closed system will remain constant. Mass is neither created nor destroyed.
I can't explain why this is true but i think i know why it is not true of density.
Density = mass/volume
if a solid square has 1*1*1 volume, and mass and changes to a rectangle. According to the law of conservation of mass the mass has to be same as the solid quare that has 1*1*1* volume and mass. but density cannot area changes and there for volume changes. Different density will come out if there is diffent volume but same mass.
 
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yjk91 said:
Density = mass/volume
Pretty much covers it.
 
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Related to Understanding the Law of Conservation of Mass: Mathematical and Verbal Proofs

What is the law of conservation of mass?

The law of conservation of mass, also known as the principle of mass conservation, states that the total mass of a closed system remains constant over time. In other words, mass cannot be created or destroyed, it can only be transformed from one form to another.

What is an example of the law of conservation of mass in action?

An example of the law of conservation of mass is the burning of a candle. When a candle burns, the wax and wick are transformed into carbon dioxide, water vapor, and ash. Although the candle appears to disappear, the total mass of the products is equal to the initial mass of the candle.

How does the law of conservation of mass relate to chemical reactions?

The law of conservation of mass is fundamental to understanding chemical reactions. In a chemical reaction, the total mass of the reactants must be equal to the total mass of the products. This means that atoms cannot be created or destroyed during a chemical reaction, they can only be rearranged.

What is the difference between conservation of mass and conservation of energy?

The law of conservation of mass deals with the amount of matter in a closed system, while the law of conservation of energy deals with the amount of energy in a closed system. While mass cannot be created or destroyed, energy can be transformed from one form to another.

Why is the law of conservation of mass important in environmental science?

The law of conservation of mass is important in environmental science because it helps us understand and predict how matter will behave in various environmental processes, such as the carbon cycle, nutrient cycling, and pollution. It also reminds us of the importance of reducing waste and recycling to maintain a balanced ecosystem.

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