Physical vs. Chemical Change

Front

What is a physical change?

Back

A physical change is a change that affects one or more physical properties of a substance without altering its chemical composition.

Front

What is a chemical change?

Back

A chemical change is a process where one or more substances are transformed into new substances with different properties.

Front

What are some signs of a chemical change?

Back

Signs of a chemical change include color change, temperature change, formation of a gas, formation of a precipitate, and light emission.

Front

What happens to the substances in a physical change?

Back

In a physical change, the substances retain their original properties and can often be reversed.

Front

What happens to the substances in a chemical change?

Back

In a chemical change, the original substances are transformed into new substances with different properties.

Front

Give an example of a physical change.

Back

Melting ice is an example of a physical change; the ice changes state from solid to liquid but remains water.

Front

Give an example of a chemical change.

Back

Burning wood is an example of a chemical change; it produces ash, smoke, and gases, which are new substances.

Front

What is the difference between a mixture and a compound?

Back

A mixture is a combination of two or more substances that can be separated, while a compound is a substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond together.

Front

What is the role of energy in chemical changes?

Back

Energy is often absorbed or released during a chemical change, which can cause temperature changes or the production of light.

Front

What is an example of a sign of a chemical reaction?

Back

Formation of a gas, such as bubbles in a fizzy drink, is a sign of a chemical reaction.