Which of the following is NOT a part of Dalton's atomic theory?

• A. Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions.
• B. Compounds are formed by the combination of atoms of different elements in fixed ratios.
• C. All matter is made up of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms.
• D. Atoms of the same element are identical in mass and properties.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the main postulates of Dalton's atomic theory, which include: (1) All matter is made up of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms; (2) Atoms of the same element are identical in mass and properties; (3) Compounds are formed by the combination of atoms of different elements in fixed ratios; and (4) Atoms cannot be created or destroyed in chemical reactions.
2. Analyze each given statement and compare it to Dalton's postulates to determine if it aligns with his theory.
3. Identify that the statement 'Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions' contradicts Dalton's postulate that atoms are indivisible and cannot be created or destroyed during chemical reactions.
4. Recognize that the other statements correctly reflect Dalton's atomic theory.
5. Conclude that the statement about atoms being created or destroyed in chemical reactions is NOT part of Dalton's atomic theory.