Praxis 5511 Practice Question

Question Image

A student sets up an experiment as shown to test the law of conservation of mass. A mixture of copper and sulfur is heated to produce solid copper sulfide and gaseous sulfur dioxide, which is collected in a balloon. To ensure the data collected are valid, the student should

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Using the same balance for determining the mass before and after heating ensures consistency and accuracy in measurements, which is vital for validating the law of conservation of mass.

Option B is misleading; measuring the mass before cooling is irrelevant if the balance is not consistent. Option C is incorrect because including the balloon's mass only after heating introduces variability and potential error. Option D is also wrong, as removing the balloon could lead to loss of gas, affecting the total mass measurement and compromising the experiment's integrity. Consistent measurement is key to valid results.

Unlock All Questions

Subscribe to Premium for full access to all practice questions, detailed rationales, and performance tracking.

Subscribe Now