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 cutting, bending, or melting.

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 cannot be easily reversed. Examples include burning, rusting, and baking.

Front

Give an example of a physical change.

Back

Slicing bread is an example of a physical change.

Front

Give an example of a chemical change.

Back

Burning paper is an example of a chemical change.

Front

What happens to water when it is heated to steam?

Back

When water is heated to steam, it undergoes a physical change.

Front

Why is baking a cake considered a chemical change?

Back

Baking a cake is considered a chemical change because the process cannot be reversed.

Front

What is an indicator of a chemical change?

Back

An indicator of a chemical change can include color change, temperature change, gas production, or the formation of a precipitate.

Front

Is breaking glass a physical or chemical change?

Back

Breaking glass is an example of a physical change.

Front

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

Back

The properties of a substance may change, but its chemical composition remains the same during a physical change.

Front

What is an example of a reversible physical change?

Back

Melting ice is an example of a reversible physical change.