Question

which statement best supports your claim? choose 1 answer: a the sulfur atoms are physically mixed in with the rubber molecules. this means the chemical identity of the rubber molecules did not change. b new bonds form between rubber molecules and sulfur. this creates a substance with different properties. c heating the rubber caused it to become more solid and durable, which is a phase change. the rubber looks different but is still the same substance.

Explanation:

To determine the best - supporting statement, we analyze each option:

• Option A: When sulfur is added to rubber in the vulcanization process, it is not a physical mixture. In fact, chemical bonds form between rubber molecules and sulfur. So, the claim that the chemical identity of rubber molecules does not change is incorrect.
• Option B: In the vulcanization of rubber, new covalent bonds (disulfide bonds) form between rubber molecules and sulfur. This cross - linking of rubber molecules changes the properties of the rubber, making it more durable, less sticky, etc. This statement correctly describes the chemical change that occurs during vulcanization and supports the idea of a chemical reaction (which would be related to a claim about a chemical change in rubber).
• Option C: The change that occurs during vulcanization is not a phase change. A phase change (like melting or freezing) is a physical change where the chemical identity of the substance remains the same. But vulcanization involves a chemical change with new bonds forming, so this option is incorrect.

Answer:

B. New bonds form between rubber molecules and sulfur. This creates a substance with different properties.