Question detail
Explain why the mass of a metal oxide may be greater than the mass of the metal when oxygen reacts with the metal.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Chemical measurements, conservation of mass and the quantitative interpretation of chemical equations
Question
Explain why the mass of a metal oxide may be greater than the mass of the metal when oxygen reacts with the metal.
Answer
When a metal reacts with oxygen, it forms a metal oxide. The mass of the metal oxide is greater because the oxygen from the air combines with the metal. This additional mass from the oxygen contributes to the overall mass of the product, resulting in a metal oxide that weighs more than the original metal alone.
Explanation
This question tests the understanding of the conservation of mass in chemical reactions, specifically how the addition of oxygen affects the mass of the products formed. It requires students to apply their knowledge of chemical reactions and mass changes.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Mass Increase
Students often think that the mass of a metal oxide is greater than the mass of the metal because the metal gains weight during the reaction.
Explain that the increase in mass is due to the oxygen from the air combining with the metal, which adds to the total mass of the product.
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