According to Dalton's atomic theory, all matter whether an element, a compound or a mixture is composed of small particles called atoms which can neither be created nor destroyed during a chemical reaction. Dalton's theory provides a simple explanation for the laws of chemical combination. He used his theory to explain law of conservation of masses, law of constant proportions and law of multiple proportions, based on various postulates of the theory. Dalton was the first scientist to use the symbols for the elements in a very specific sense. When he used a symbol for an element he also meant a definite quantity of that element, that is one atom of that element.
Which postulate of Dalton's atomic theory is the result of the law of conservation of mass?

Options

A. Atoms can neither be created nor destroyed.
B. Each element is composed of extremely small particles called atoms.
C. All the atoms of a given element are identical.
D. During chemical combination, atoms of different elements combine in simple ratios.

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Dalton's Atomic Theory**: Dalton's atomic theory consists of several postulates that describe the nature of matter. The key idea is that all matter is made up of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms.

2. **Identifying the Relevant Postulates**: Among the various postulates of Dalton's atomic theory, we need to identify which one relates specifically to the law of conservation of mass. The relevant postulates include:
- Atoms cannot be created or destroyed.
- Atoms of different elements combine in fixed ratios to form compounds.

3. **Connecting to the Law of Conservation of Mass**: The law of conservation of mass states that in a chemical reaction, the total mass of the reactants equals the total mass of the products. This implies that atoms are neither created nor destroyed during the reaction.

4. **Conclusion**: The postulate of Dalton's atomic theory that directly results from the law of conservation of mass is: "Atoms cannot be created or destroyed." This means that the number of atoms remains constant throughout a chemical reaction, supporting the idea that mass is conserved.

**Final Answer**: The postulate of Dalton's atomic theory that is the result of the law of conservation of mass is: "Atoms cannot be created or destroyed."

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