We are all familiar with the concept of change. It is something that happens in our lives every day and something that we cannot avoid. But what is a physical change? This article will discuss what physical change is and some examples of it.

A physical change is a change that occurs to a substance without altering the chemical composition of the substance. This means that the same atoms and molecules remain but their arrangement and/or physical properties have changed. The substance itself is still the same, it just looks or behaves differently.

Examples of Physical Change

Physical changes can be seen all around us. Some examples include melting, freezing, boiling, condensation, sublimation, and evaporating. These changes can be observed when a solid becomes a liquid, a liquid becomes a gas, or a gas becomes a solid. For example, when ice melts it becomes liquid water. This is an example of a physical change.

Other Examples of Physical Change

In addition to melting and freezing, other examples of physical changes include changes in shape, size, and color. For example, when a piece of paper is cut into pieces, this is an example of a physical change. The paper still exists, but its shape has changed. When a piece of paper is crumpled up, this is also an example of a physical change. The paper still exists, but its shape has changed.

Another example of physical change is when a liquid changes color. For example, when a glass of water is dyed blue, this is an example of a physical change. The water is still water, but its color has changed. This is due to the addition of dye molecules to the water.

Physical Change and Chemical Change

It is important to note the difference between physical and chemical changes. A physical change is a change that does not alter the chemical composition of a substance. A chemical change, on the other hand, does alter the chemical composition of a substance. For example, when a piece of iron rusts, this is an example of a chemical change. The iron has reacted with oxygen in the air to form iron oxide (rust).

Conclusion

In conclusion, physical change is a change that occurs to a substance without altering the chemical composition of the substance. Examples of physical change include melting, freezing, boiling, condensation, sublimation, evaporating, changes in shape, size, and color. It is important to note the difference between physical and chemical changes. Chemical changes alter the chemical composition of a substance, while physical changes do not.