Which one of the following is NOT one of the postulates of Dalton's atomic theory?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Review Dalton's atomic theory postulates, 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. Identify the statement that contradicts Dalton's postulates. Dalton's theory asserts that atoms are indivisible and cannot be created or destroyed during chemical reactions.
3. Examine the given options and find the one that states 'Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions,' which directly opposes Dalton's postulate about the conservation of atoms.
4. Conclude that the statement 'Atoms can be created or destroyed in chemical reactions' is NOT one of Dalton's atomic theory postulates because it contradicts the principle of atom conservation.
5. Understand that this incorrect statement reflects a misunderstanding of Dalton's theory and is important to recognize when studying atomic theory and chemical reactions.