Chemical vs. Physical Changes

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What is a chemical change?

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A chemical change is a change that results in the formation of new substances. Examples include burning, rusting, and spoiling.

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What is a physical change?

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A physical change is a change that affects one or more physical properties of a substance without changing its chemical composition. Examples include melting, freezing, and dissolving.

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What happens during a chemical change?

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During a chemical change, the atoms in the substances rearrange to form new substances.

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What happens during a physical change?

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During a physical change, the substance may change its form or appearance, but its chemical identity remains the same.

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What is an example of a chemical change?

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An example of a chemical change is the burning of wood, which produces ash and smoke.

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What is an example of a physical change?

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An example of a physical change is ice melting into water.

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How can you tell if a chemical change has occurred?

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

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What is the flame test used for?

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The flame test is used to identify the presence of certain gases, such as hydrogen, by observing the reaction in a flame.

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What does hydrogen do in a flame test?

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Hydrogen produces a 'pop' sound when ignited in a flame.

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Is burning wood a chemical or physical change?

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Burning wood is a chemical change.