How Do You Determine The Difference Between Chemical And Physical Properties?
One of the most important aspects of chemistry involves distinguishing between chemical and physical properties. The definitions may appear easy enough, but applying these principles to actual examples can be challenging. Nevertheless, by reading these steps, you will discover ways in which to approach this topic with ease. Step 1 Recall the definitions of chemical and physical properties. Chemical properties refer to how a substance interacts with another substance, in which a change in chemical composition is produced. However, a physical property refers to the appearance or characteristics of a given substance. With a physical property, the chemical composition of the substance is not altered. Step 2 Analyze the extent of the example. Is the substance being chemically altered? Has its composition changed? Is the example describing a phase change, or is it describing the appearance of the substance? If the substance is being altered chemically, then a chemical property is being descr