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 Chemical Reaction, process by which atoms or groups of atoms are redistributed, resulting in a change in the molecular composition of substances. An example of a chemical reaction is formation of rust (iron oxide), which is produced when oxygen in the air reacts with iron.

 

 

Oxidation: A chemical Reaction In Really Life

Oxidation, in its original sense, refers to the combination of oxygen with another substance to produce a compound called an oxide. Iron, in the presence of water, combines with atmospheric oxygen to form a hydrated iron oxide, commonly called rust.

 

Question

What is the difference between a physical change and a chemical change?

Asked by: Tim Meyer

Answer

There are two possible definitions for Physical and Chemical changes which I use in school:

1. A physical change is reversible, a chemical change is not. For example, the freezing of water would be a physical change because it can be reversed, whereas the burning of wood is a chemical change - you can't 'unburn' it

2. A physical change is a change in which no new substance is formed; a chemical change results in the formation of one or more new substances. Again, consider the previous examples: Freezing water into ice just results in water molecules which are 'stuck' together - it's still H2O. Whereas burning wood results in ash, carbon dioxide, etc, all new substances which weren't there when you started.

 

  • Chemical vs. Physical Changes.
    • In a physical change, the substances are not altered chemically, but merely changed to another phase (i.e. gas, liquid, solid) or separated or combined.
    • In a chemical change, the substances are altered chemically and display different physical and chemical properties after the change.