A student investigated the rate of reaction between calcium carbonate marble chips and dilute hydrochloric acid using an open conical flask on a digital balance.
The mass of the flask and its contents was recorded at regular intervals. The results are shown in the table and representation below:
| Time (seconds) | Mass of flask and contents (g) |
|---|---|
| 0 | 250.00 |
| 30 | 249.45 |
| 60 | 249.10 |
| 90 | 248.85 |
| 120 | 248.70 |
| 150 | 248.65 |
| 180 | 248.65 |
Explain why there is a decrease in the mass of the flask and contents.
