The following statements pertain to the development of the theory of combustion by the French chemist Lavoisier in the eighteenth century. Match the statement with the appro-priate step (observation, hypothesis, experiment designed to test hypothesis) in the scientific method (c) Combustion of a metal in a closed container ceases after a length of time.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the statement: 'Combustion of a metal in a closed container ceases after a length of time.'
2. Determine the role of the statement in the scientific method.
3. Recognize that the statement describes an observed phenomenon during an experiment.
4. Classify the statement as an 'observation' because it reports what happens during the combustion process in a closed container.
5. Understand that this observation could lead to further hypotheses and experiments to explore why combustion ceases.

Key Concepts

Scientific Method

The scientific method is a systematic approach to inquiry that involves making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions. It is fundamental in scientific research as it provides a structured framework for investigating phenomena and validating theories.

Combustion

Combustion is a chemical reaction that typically involves the rapid combination of a substance with oxygen, producing heat and light. In the context of Lavoisier's work, understanding combustion was crucial for developing theories about chemical reactions and the conservation of mass.

Closed System

A closed system in chemistry refers to a physical system that does not exchange matter with its surroundings but can exchange energy. Lavoisier's experiments on combustion in closed containers helped demonstrate how gases are consumed and produced during chemical reactions, leading to insights about the nature of combustion.