Explain the characteristics of a physical change with examples.

A physical change is a change in which the form or appearance of a substance changes but its chemical composition remains the same.

Characteristics of Physical Change

1. No new substance formed: Only the physical state or appearance changes.
2. Reversible: Most physical changes can be reversed easily.
3. No energy change: Very little or no energy is absorbed or released.
4. Properties remain same: The chemical properties of the substance remain unchanged.
5. Molecular structure unchanged: Only arrangement of particles changes.

Examples

• Melting of ice into water (reversible).
• Evaporation of water into steam.
• Breaking of glass.
• Dissolving sugar or salt in water.