If shaded and unshaded spheres represent atoms of different elements,as shown in drawing (1),which combination of drawings (2)-(4)represent the law of multiple proportions?
A)only drawings (2)and (3)
B)only drawings (2)and (4)
C)only drawings (3)and (4)
D)drawings (2),(3),and (4)

Question

If shaded and unshaded spheres represent atoms of different elements,as shown in drawing (1),which combination of drawings (2)-(4)represent the law of multiple proportions? 
A)only drawings (2)and (3) 
B)only drawings (2)and (4) 
C)only drawings (3)and (4) 
D)drawings (2),(3),and (4)

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The law of multiple proportions states that when two elements combine to form more than one compound, the ratio of the masses of one element that combine with a fixed mass of the other element will be in ratios of small whole numbers. In drawings (2), (3), and (4), the ratio of shaded to unshaded spheres is not the same in each drawing. Drawing (2) has a ratio of 2:1, drawing (3) has a ratio of 4:3, and drawing (4) has a ratio of 3:2. These ratios are all in small whole numbers, which is consistent with the law of multiple proportions. Therefore, the best choice is D.

If Shaded and Unshaded Spheres Represent Atoms of Different Elements,as