Chemical vs. Physical Changes in matter

Front

What is a physical change?

Back

A physical change is a change in an item's properties like its shape, size, or density, without creating a new substance.

Front

What is a chemical change?

Back

A chemical change is a change that creates a new substance, often accompanied by the release of energy, light, or heat.

Front

Is melting ice a chemical or physical change?

Back

Melting ice is a physical change.

Front

What happens to the substance in a physical change?

Back

The substance remains the same; only its form or appearance changes.

Front

What happens to the substance in a chemical change?

Back

The substance transforms into one or more new substances with different properties.

Front

Give an example of a physical change.

Back

Examples include melting butter, shredding paper, or freezing water.

Front

Give an example of a chemical change.

Back

Examples include rusting iron, burning wood, or baking a cake.

Front

What is an indicator of a chemical change?

Back

Indicators include color change, temperature change, gas production (bubbles), or formation of a precipitate.

Front

Can physical changes be reversed?

Back

Yes, many physical changes can be reversed, such as freezing and melting.

Front

Can chemical changes be reversed?

Back

Chemical changes are usually not reversible by simple physical means.