1. which of the following is true regarding the law of conservation of mass? a it dictates that the number of molecules on each side of a chemical equation must be the same. b it does not apply to chemical reactions. c it dictates that the number of atoms of each element must be the same on both sides of a chemical equation. d it states that the mass of the reactants must remain constant in order for a chemical reaction to proceed.

C It dictates that the number of atoms of each element must be the same on both sides of a chemical equation.  

Step-by-step explanation:

Atoms have mass, so they can neither be destroyed nor created.

Thus, the number of atoms of each element must be the same on both sides of a balanced chemical equation.  

A is wrong. Molecules consist of different numbers of atoms, and it is atoms that must be conserved.

B is wrong. the Law of conservation of Mass applies to all chemical reactions.

D is wrong. If the reaction proceeds, the mass of reactants must decrease as they are converted to products.