According to Dalton's atomic theory, which of the following chemical reactions is NOT possible?

• A. A reaction in which atoms of one element are converted into atoms of another element
• B. A reaction in which atoms are rearranged to form new compounds
• C. A reaction in which atoms combine in fixed, simple whole-number ratios
• D. A reaction in which compounds decompose into their constituent elements

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall Dalton's atomic theory, which states that atoms are indivisible and indestructible particles that cannot be transformed into atoms of another element during chemical reactions.
2. Understand that according to Dalton, chemical reactions involve the rearrangement of atoms to form new compounds, but the atoms themselves do not change identity.
3. Analyze each reaction type: (1) atoms converting into atoms of another element, (2) atoms rearranging to form new compounds, (3) atoms combining in fixed whole-number ratios, and (4) compounds decomposing into constituent elements.
4. Identify that reactions involving atoms rearranging, combining in fixed ratios, or decomposing into elements are consistent with Dalton's theory.
5. Conclude that the reaction where atoms of one element are converted into atoms of another element contradicts Dalton's theory and is therefore NOT possible according to his atomic theory.