🧊Physical change vs Chemical change🧨
Changes in matter are either physical or chemical. The test is whether a new substance with new properties is formed.
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🧊Physical change
- ✓No new substance is formed
- ✓Only form, state or shape changes
- ✓Usually easily reversible
- ✓Same chemical composition before and after
- ✓Examples: melting ice, cutting paper
🧨Chemical change
- ✓One or more new substances form
- ✓Chemical bonds break and form
- ✓Usually difficult to reverse
- ✓Often signaled by gas, heat or color change
- ✓Examples: burning wood, rusting iron
Verdict
A physical change rearranges matter without making anything new; a chemical change produces new substances with new properties. Look for signs like gas, heat or color.
Frequently asked
How do I spot a chemical change?+
Watch for new substances, color change, gas bubbles, light or a notable energy change.
Is dissolving sugar a chemical change?+
No. Dissolving sugar is a physical change because no new substance forms.
Are physical changes reversible?+
Usually yes, since the substance keeps the same composition throughout.
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