Physical vs. Chemical Changes in Matter

Matter is all around us. It can be found in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Matter can change in many ways, but there are two main types of changes: physical changes and chemical changes.

Physical changes are changes that do not change the substance into a new substance. For example, if you tear a piece of paper, it is still paper. If you melt an ice cube, it is still water. Physical changes can be reversed. If you crumple a piece of paper, you can smooth it out again.

Chemical changes are changes that create a new substance. For example, if you burn a piece of paper, it turns into ash. If you cook an egg, it turns into a solid. Chemical changes cannot be reversed. Once a new substance is created, it cannot be changed back.

Now, let’s test your knowledge with some multiple choice questions!

1. What is a physical change? a. A change that creates a new substance b. A change that does not change the substance into a new substance c. A change that cannot be reversed

2. What is a chemical change? a. A change that creates a new substance b. A change that does not change the substance into a new substance c. A change that can be reversed

3. If you tear a piece of paper, is it a physical or chemical change? a. Physical change b. Chemical change

4. If you burn a piece of paper, is it a physical or chemical change? a. Physical change b. Chemical change

5. If you cook an egg, is it a physical or chemical change? a. Physical change b. Chemical change

Answers: 1. b 2. a 3. a 4. b 5. b