The rule that validates the statement that matter can neither be created nor destroyed is the law of conservation of mass; option [C]. This law asserts that in a closed system, the total mass remains constant over time, irrespective of physical or chemical changes within the system. It underpins the fundamental principle that matter cannot be spontaneously generated or eliminated; instead, it can only be transformed from one form to another. La Chatelier’s law pertains to chemical equilibrium, the law of conservation of energy addresses the preservation of energy, and the law of osmosis describes the movement of solvent molecules across a semipermeable membrane. While these laws are important in their respective domains, it is the law of conservation of mass that specifically addresses the preservation of matter, affirming that matter cannot be created nor destroyed, only rearranged or transformed.