4. Suppose cellular respiration occurs inside an insulated, sealed container. How does the container's weight change during the reaction?

a. increases
b. stays the same
c. decreases
d. fluctuates

b. stays the same

To determine how the weight of the container changes during cellular respiration, we need to understand the process. Cellular respiration is the metabolic process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into carbon dioxide, water, and usable energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

During cellular respiration, glucose is broken down, and oxygen is consumed, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide and water. The reaction involves both the breaking and formation of chemical bonds.

Since matter is neither created nor destroyed during a chemical reaction, the total mass of the system, including the container and its contents, should remain constant. This principle is known as the Law of Conservation of Mass.

Therefore, the correct answer is b. The weight of the container should stay the same.