Chemical vs. Physical Changes

Front

What is a chemical change?

Back

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

Front

What is a physical change?

Back

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.

Front

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

Back

The properties of the substance change completely, and new substances are formed.

Front

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

Back

The properties may change, but the substance remains the same and can often be reversed.

Front

Can you give an example of a physical change?

Back

Melting ice is an example of a physical change.

Front

Can you give an example of a chemical change?

Back

Burning wood is an example of a chemical change.

Front

What is an indicator of a chemical change?

Back

An indicator of a chemical change can be a change in color, temperature, formation of gas, or formation of a precipitate.

Front

What is an example of a change between states of matter?

Back

Water boiling into steam is an example of a change between states of matter.

Front

What is the role of oxygen in combustion?

Back

Oxygen is needed for combustion to occur; it reacts with a substance to produce heat and light.

Front

What is carbon dioxide's role when a candle goes out?

Back

Carbon dioxide can extinguish a candle flame because it displaces oxygen needed for combustion.