TED-ED: The law of conservation of mass - Todd Ramsey

The video explores the origin and transformation of atoms, starting with the Law of Conservation of Mass, which states that mass cannot be created or destroyed. It demonstrates chemical reactions, such as the formation of water and carbon dioxide, and explains how energy is stored and released. The video also covers combustion reactions with methane and propane, emphasizing the conservation of atoms. Finally, it traces the origin of atoms back to the Big Bang, explaining how stars formed heavier elements and scattered them across the universe, leading to the formation of Earth and life.

What does the Law of Conservation of Mass state about matter in an isolated system?

• Matter can be created but not destroyed.

• Matter can change forms but cannot be created or destroyed.

• Matter can be created and destroyed.

• Matter can be destroyed but not created.

In the context of chemical reactions, what happens to the atoms involved?

• They lose their mass.

• They rearrange to form new molecules.

• They change into different elements.

• They disappear after the reaction.

What is a common use of methane besides being associated with cow flatulence?

• As a building material

• As a cleaning agent

• As a rocket fuel

• As a food preservative

How are heavier elements like carbon and oxygen formed in the universe?

• Through chemical reactions on Earth

• By the fusion of light elements in stars

• Through volcanic activity

• By the splitting of atoms in space

What significant event is believed to have led to the formation of hydrogen atoms?

• The creation of the solar system

• The first supernova

• The Big Bang

• The formation of Earth