Chapter U4.4, Problem 2E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The law of conservation of mass needs to be applied on garbage with explanation.

Concept introduction:

Law of conservation of mass states that mass cannotbe created or destroyed. It can only be converted to energy.

Explanation of Solution

In garbage, decomposition of matters takes place with the help of microorganisms. Thus,the amount of garbage decreases with time. But law of conservation of mass is still applicable for garbage as the decomposition of garbage matter is proportional to the growth of microorganisms. The amount of mass lost from garbage is equal to the mass gained by the microorganisms.

Also, many substances can be recycled from garbage. For example, some plastics can be recycled and reused. Electricity can be generated from garbage. Thus, some mass is converted to energy. Therefore, loss of mass does not takes place and law of conservation of mass is applied.