Question

a hiker prepares trail mix for a hiking trip by mixing ingredients in different amounts, as shown.
ingredient | amount (g)
granola | 250
raisins | 50
sunflower seeds | 20
almonds | 150
cashews | 100
chocolate chips | 70
baked peanuts | 200

the hiker weighs the trail mix on a balance. what would be the likely reading on the balance, and why?
the reading will be greater than 840 g because when the ingredients are mixed, new ingredients with different masses are formed.
the reading will be less than 840 g because when the ingredients are mixed, the particles come closer together, and they occupy less space.
the reading will be equal to 840 g because when the ingredients are mixed, the particles are rearranged, but their masses remain the same.
the reading will be equal to 840 g because when the ingredients are mixed, the particles join together to form a new substance with the same properties.

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate total mass of ingredients

$250 + 50 + 20 + 150 + 100 + 70 + 200 = 840$ g

Step2: Analyze mixing principle

Mixing trail mix is a physical change; no new substances are formed, and total mass is conserved. Particles rearrange but total mass stays the same.

Answer:

The reading will be equal to 840 g because when the ingredients are mixed, the particles are rearranged, but their masses remain the same.