Nature of Matter

Matter is anything that has mass and occupies space.

Matter can undergo different changes depending on the conditions it experiences. These changes are classified into two main types: physical changes and chemical changes.

Physical Changes

Physical changes are changes that are easily reversible and do not result in the formation of new substances. The substance retains its original properties, and the change only affects its physical state or appearance.

Examples:

1. Melting of ice
2. Dissolving salt or sugar in water, then recovering it by boiling
3. Magnetizing a piece of iron
4. Melting wax
5. Boiling water
6. Demagnetizing a piece of iron
7. Separating a mixture using evaporation or fractional distillation
8. Sublimation

Chemical Changes

Chemical changes are changes that are permanent and result in the formation of new substances. These changes often involve heat and lead to a complete transformation of the original materials.

Examples:

1. Burning of wood
2. Rusting of iron
3. Boiling of an egg
4. Digesting food
5. Fermentation
6. Souring of Milk
7. Food Spoilage

Differences Between Physical and Chemical Changes