The total mass change is calculated by subtracting the initial mass from the final mass.
Here's a breakdown:
Formula:
Mass Change = Final Mass - Initial Mass
Explanation:
- Final Mass: The mass of the object or system after the change has occurred (e.g., after a chemical reaction, heating, or growth).
- Initial Mass: The mass of the object or system at the beginning (e.g., before a chemical reaction, heating, or growth).
- The result, "Mass Change", can be positive (mass increased), negative (mass decreased), or zero (no mass change).
Example:
Let's say you heat a sample of copper.
- Initial Mass of Copper: 50 grams
- Final Mass of Copper (after heating and oxidation): 55 grams
Mass Change = 55 grams - 50 grams = 5 grams
In this example, the mass change is 5 grams, indicating that the copper gained 5 grams, likely due to oxidation.
Important Considerations:
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Units: Ensure that both the initial and final mass are measured in the same units (e.g., grams, kilograms, pounds).
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Closed System: In ideal situations (especially in chemistry), the mass change should be close to zero if the system is closed (nothing enters or leaves the system except energy). Apparent mass changes in open systems are often due to the addition or loss of gases or liquids.
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Percent Change (related): If you need to calculate the percent change in mass, you would use the following formula:
Percent Change in Mass = ((Final Mass - Initial Mass) / Initial Mass) * 100%
