Question

One part of an clement \(\mathrm{X}\) combines with two parts of another clement \(\mathrm{Y}\). Six parts of the clement \(\mathrm{Z}\) combines with four parts of clement \(Y\). If \(X\) and \(Y\) combine together, the ratio of their weights will be governed by (1) Law of multiple proportions (2) Law of definite proportions (3) Law of reciprocal proportions (4) Law of conservation of mass

Short answer

Law of reciprocal proportions (Option 3)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Problem

We need to determine the ratio of weights when elements X and Y combine, and identify which law of chemical combination applies.

Examining the Given Ratios

According to the problem, one part of element X combines with two parts of element Y. Additionally, six parts of element Z combine with four parts of Y. These ratios describe how elements combine by mass.

Definition of Chemical Combination Laws

1. Law of multiple proportions - Elements combine in multiple ratios to form different compounds.2. Law of definite proportions - A chemical compound always contains exact proportion of elements by mass.3. Law of reciprocal proportions - The masses of two elements that separately combine with a fixed mass of a third element are indicative of the proportion in which they combine with each other.4. Law of conservation of mass - Mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction.

Analyzing the Law that Applies

The mass ratio given involves X and Y directly, and Y and Z directly. To determine the correct law, understand how known ratios interact. Since elements X and Y combine in fixed specific ratios and we can relate combining masses due to Y, the situation aligns with the Law of Reciprocal Proportions.

Selecting the Correct Law

Given our analysis, the problem aligns with option (3) Law of reciprocal proportions.

Key concepts

Chemical Combination Laws

Chemical combination laws describe how different elements combine to form compounds.
These laws outline specific principles governing the formation of chemical compounds.
Let's delve into the key laws relevant to chemical combinations:

• Law of Multiple Proportions: This law states that if two elements can form more than one compound, the masses of one element that combine with a fixed mass of the other are in the ratio of small whole numbers.
• Law of Definite Proportions: Also known as the law of constant composition. It states that a chemical compound always contains its component elements in a fixed ratio by mass and does not depend on its source or method of preparation.
• Law of Reciprocal Proportions: According to this law, the masses of two elements that combine separately with a fixed mass of a third element are in the same ratio or a simple multiple of the ratio in which these two elements combine with each other.
• Law of Conservation of Mass: This law states that mass is neither created nor destroyed in a chemical reaction. It emphasizes that the total mass of reactants equals the total mass of products.

Stoichiometry

Stoichiometry is the branch of chemistry that deals with the relative quantities of reactants and products in chemical reactions. It helps us understand the quantitative relationships and conversions based on chemical formulas and equations.

Stoichiometry relies on the law of conservation of mass, ensuring that the mass of reactants equals the mass of products. Here's how it works:

• Mole Concept: This concept involves using the Avogadro number (6.022 x 10²³ particles) to quantify entities in a substance, making it easier to relate macroscale measurements to microscale reactions.
• Chemical Equations: A balanced chemical equation provides the proportionate ratio of reactants and products, guiding the calculations of amounts involved.
• Reactant and Product Quantities: By using stoichiometric coefficients from balanced equations, we can determine the amount of reactants needed or the amount of products formed.

Mass Ratios

Mass ratios are crucial in understanding how elements combine during chemical reactions. They provide insight into the relative amounts of each element in a compound.
Here are some key points about mass ratios:

• Defining Mass Ratios: Mass ratios express the relative masses of elements in a compound, usually represented in the smallest whole numbers.
• Application in Chemical Laws: As illustrated in the law of reciprocal proportions, mass ratios help predict the combining masses of different elements.
• Example: In the given problem, one part of element X combines with two parts of element Y, while six parts of element Z combine with four parts of Y. These ratios help determine how X and Y might combine based on their common relationship with Y.

Understanding mass ratios and their roles within the laws of chemical combination is essential for correctly analyzing and predicting chemical reactions.