Difference between Physical and Chemical Change
A physical change is a change in the state or appearance of a substance, but its chemical composition remains the same such as melting, boiling, or evaporation. On the other hand, a chemical change involves a change in the chemical composition of a substance.
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Chemical Change Vs Physical Change
The key difference between chemical and physical change are listed in the following table:
|
Characteristics |
Chemical Change |
Physical Change |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
A change that results in the formation of new substances with different chemical properties. |
A change in the physical properties of a substance without a change in its chemical composition. |
|
Chemical Properties |
Alters the chemical composition of the substances involved. |
Does not alter the chemical composition of the substances involved. |
|
Irreversibility |
It is difficult or impossible to reverse the change. |
Usually reversible; the original substance can often be obtained again. |
|
Energy Change |
It often involves the release or absorption of energy, such as heat or light. |
Typically involves energy changes but does not involve the formation or breaking of chemical bonds. |
|
Examples |
Combustion, rusting, cooking an egg, digestion, and baking. |
Melting, freezing, boiling, cutting, dissolving, and crushing. |
|
Particles Involved |
Involves the rearrangement of atoms and molecules. |
Involves a rearrangement of particles, but the same atoms and molecules remain. |
|
Indicators |
May produce a color change, gas evolution, or formation of a precipitate. |
Usually does not result in significant changes in the appearance or chemical properties of the substances. |
|
Chemical Equations |
Can be represented by chemical equations showing reactants and products. |
Typically not represented by chemical equations, but may be shown with phase changes. |
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Chemical Change
Chemical Changes are also known as chemical reactions. The word “Chemical Change” is made of 2 words i.e. chemical and change. Chemical refers to the composition and properties of matter at the atomic and molecular level, while change tells us about transformation. Most of the chemical changes occur in a natural environment, like evaporation, condensation, rainfall, and so on. All of these changes imply a state change.
In this article, we will explore the concept of chemical change in detail including its definition, types, and factors affecting the changes as well as some examples.
Table of Content
- What is a Chemical Change?
- Chemical Changes Example
- Chemical Change in Nature
- Signs of Chemical Change
- Factors Affecting Chemical Changes
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