What are physical and chemical change?
Physical and Chemical Changes
Physical and chemical changes are two types of transformations matter can undergo. Understanding the differences between them is crucial in the field of chemistry.
Physical Change
- Physical changes involve alterations in the state or appearance of a substance, without changing its chemical composition.
- Examples of physical changes include melting, freezing, boiling, cutting, and crushing.
- These changes are usually reversible, meaning the original substance can be recovered.
- Energy changes may occur during physical changes, but the bonds between atoms remain intact.
Chemical Change
- Chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with different chemical compositions.
- Chemical reactions involve breaking and forming chemical bonds between atoms.
- Examples of chemical changes include rusting of iron, burning of wood, and digestion of food.
- Energy changes are often involved in chemical reactions, such as heat or light being given off or absorbed.
- Chemical changes are usually irreversible, making it difficult to recover the original substances.
In summary, physical changes involve alterations in the state or appearance of a substance without changing its chemical composition, while chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with different chemical compositions through the breaking and forming of chemical bonds. Both types of changes play essential roles in understanding the behavior of matter in various processes and reactions.
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