Chemical vs Physical Changes

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. Examples include changes in state (like melting or freezing) and shape (like cutting or crushing).

Front

What is a chemical change?

Back

A chemical change is a change that results in the formation of new chemical substances. It involves a chemical reaction and changes the chemical composition of the substance. Examples include burning, rusting, and cooking.

Front

Give an example of a physical change.

Back

An example of a physical change is freezing juice. The juice changes from liquid to solid, but its chemical composition remains the same.

Front

Give an example of a chemical change.

Back

An example of a chemical change is burning wood in a campfire. The wood transforms into ash, smoke, and gases, changing its chemical composition.

Front

What happens during a chemical change?

Back

During a chemical change, substances react to form new substances with different properties. This often involves energy changes, such as heat, light, or gas production.

Front

What is rusting?

Back

Rusting is a chemical change that occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture in the air, forming iron oxide (rust).

Front

Is sharpening a pencil a physical or chemical change?

Back

Sharpening a pencil is a physical change because it alters the shape of the pencil without changing its chemical composition.

Front

What is an example of a compound?

Back

Iron oxide (FeO) is an example of a compound formed when iron rusts.

Front

What indicates a chemical change has occurred?

Back

Indicators of a chemical change include color change, gas production, temperature change, and the formation of a precipitate.

Front

What is the difference between a physical change and a chemical change?

Back

A physical change does not alter the chemical composition of a substance, while a chemical change results in the formation of new substances.