In the Haber Process, hydrogen (H2) and nitrogen (N2) react to produce

ammonia (NH3).

H2 + 3H22NH3

This reaction releases heat. How does the reaction influence the mass of the

reacting chemicals?

A. Mass stays the same because molecular mass remains constant.

B. Mass increases because a more complex compound is produced.

C. Mass decreases because some mass is converted into heat energy.

D. Mass stays the same because no matter is created or destroyed.

Mass stays the same because no matter is created or destroyed.

Explanation:

Regardless of what chemical reaction we have, in each case the law of mass conservation applies. The law of mass conservation states that the total mass of a reaction mixture is kept constant, as mass cannot be created or destroyed.

In this specific reaction, the total mass of the reactants should be equal to the total mass of the products when the reaction is complete.

In other words, if we add the mass of hydrogen to the mass of nitrogen, when the reaction is compete, assuming no reagent in excess, this should be equal to the mass of ammonia formed.