Question

Which equation best represents conservation of matter?

Answer 1

Answer:

A 6H2O + 6CO2 → C6H12O6 + 6O2

Explanation:

The law of conservation of matter states that matter can neither be created nor destroyed in a system. In other words, when elemental matter undergoes a reaction, the amount of elements used must be equal the amount produced.

The equations in this question depicts the overall photosynthetic process where CO2 combines with H2O to produce C6H12O6 and O2. In order for this equation to obey the "conservation of matter", each individual element must be equal on both the reactant and the product side i.e. the equation must be balanced.

The equation that fulfills this is:

6H2O + 6CO2 → C6H12O6 + 6O2

Hence, it correctly describes the conservation of matter.