A chemical change occurs when a substance or substances change to make a new substance or substances. Chemical change occurs through chemical reactions. Chemical reactions are normally not easily reversible because the atoms of a substance are rearranged. A physical change occurs when a substance or substances combine, but the result does not change the original substances. Some physical changes are easier to reverse than others, such as dissolving salt in water.
In this activity, students will create a T Chart that illustrates examples of chemical and physical changes. To extend this activity, ask students to describe what happens during the change and why it's an example of a physical or chemical change.
| Examples of Chemical Change | Examples of Physical Change |
|---|---|
| Cooking an Egg | Melting Ice |
| A Rusting Nail | A Bottle of Soda Freezing |
| Burning a Match | Crumpling Paper into a Ball |
| Milk Turning Sour | Butter Melting on Toast |
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Identify and illustrate different types of chemical and physical changes.