In the chemical laboratory, why do scientists use a mortar and pestle?
a. to increase surface area of a solute
b. to decrease surface area of a solute
c. to increase temperature of a solute
d. to decrease temperature of a solute

Answer : The correct option is, (a) to increase surface area of a solute

Explanation :

A mortar and pestle is a type tool that is used in the chemical laboratory for grinding and mixing the substances.

In the mortar and pestle, the pestle is a heavy or small substance that is made from porcelain material that has the rounded end. The mortar is a bowl type that is also made from porcelain material.

In the chemical laboratory, the scientists use a mortar and pestle due to increase the surface area of a solute. That means by the girding of the solute, the surface area will increases.

Hence, the correct option is, (a) to increase surface area of a solute