Question

Students are each given a 20-gram sample of an unknown solid compound in a clear plastic bag. They are instructed to break the material into smaller parts by gently hitting it with a hammer. Some of the parts break into large chunks and some look like a fine powder.
Which statement correctly describes these broken pieces of the sample?

Answer 1

dust, sand, ashes i could go on all day

Answer 2

is it true

Answer 3

answer choices:
- The pieces of fine powder are individual atoms
- The larger pieces are still compounds and the smaller pieces are elements.
- Each piece contains the same number of atoms.
- Each piece contains the same proportion of different elements.

Breaking the solid into chunks is an example of a physical change. It doesn't change the chemical composition of the substance. Therefore, you can eliminate choice A (the chunks are not individual atoms; they're still the same compound, just less of it). Eliminate choice B (again, the smaller pieces are still the original compound, just smaller). Think about whether C or D is correct based on what we've said so far.