Which statement correctly describes the conservation of matter in a chemical reaction? a. different types of atoms may form during the change, but the total mass remains constant. b. the number of molecules is conserved, so the total mass does not change. c. different numbers of atoms may form during the change, but the total mass is unchanged. d. atoms of each element are conserved,  so the total mass does not change

since the atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus, as we move to the left on the periodic table, the electrostatic pull between the nucleus and the valence electron shell decreases. as we move down a group (vertical column), the valence shell energy level gets further and further from the nucleus.

the answer is c i took the test

answer is: nuclear fusion produces elements that are heavier than helium.

nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy.  

for example, fusion of hydrogen atoms at the sun.  

this fusion nuclear reaction is in the inner core of the sun and hydrogen (atomic number 1) is conveted into helium (atomic number 2).  

the inner core is the central region of the sun and all solar energy is produced in the core by nuclear fusion.