Physical vs Chemical Changes in Matter

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 melting, freezing, and breaking.

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 composition of the original substance. Examples include rusting, burning, and spoiling.

Front

Are fireworks exploding a physical or chemical change?

Back

Chemical change.

Front

What happens to the properties of a substance during a chemical change?

Back

The properties of the substance change because a new substance is formed with different properties.

Front

Is melting iron a physical or chemical change?

Back

Physical change.

Front

What is an example of a chemical change?

Back

The spoiling of milk.

Front

When you break a cracker into pieces, what type of change is it?

Back

Physical change.

Front

What is an indicator of a chemical change?

Back

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

Front

Can a physical change be reversed?

Back

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

Front

Can a chemical change be reversed?

Back

Chemical changes are often not reversible by simple physical means.