Which of the following are chemical changes?(i) Decaying of wood (ii)...
Decaying of wood is a chemical change because it involves the breakdown of the organic compounds present in the wood into simpler substances through the action of microorganisms. This process is called decomposition, and it results in the formation of new compounds such as carbon dioxide, water, and various organic substances. The original composition of the wood is changed, making it a chemical change.
Burning of wood is also a chemical change. When wood is burned, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as combustion. The heat from the fire breaks down the complex organic compounds in the wood into simpler substances, such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and ash. The original wood is transformed into new compounds, and the process is irreversible, indicating a chemical change.
Sawing of wood, on the other hand, is a physical change. It involves the mechanical action of cutting the wood into smaller pieces using a saw. The composition of the wood remains the same before and after sawing, only the shape and size of the wood are altered. No new substances are formed, so it is not a chemical change.
Similarly, hammering a nail into wood is also a physical change. It involves the mechanical action of driving the nail into the wood using a hammer. The wood does not undergo any chemical reactions or changes in composition. Only the shape and position of the nail in the wood are altered.
Which of the following are chemical changes?(i) Decaying of wood (ii)...
Decaying of wood and burning of wood, because there will be a change of chemical composition and wood cannot be restored to its original form. Sawing of wood and hammering of nails into a piece of wood are physical processes where the chemical composition of compounds is not changed.