Unit 1 Part 2: Physical and Chemical Changes

Flashcards covering key vocabulary from Unit 1 Part 2, including physical vs. chemical changes, signs of chemical reactions, precipitate, filtrate, and the Law of Conservation of Matter.

Physical Change

Any change that does not change what the actual substance is, meaning the properties of the substance stay the same.

Phase Change

A change of state, such as liquid to gas or an ice cube melting; all phase changes are physical changes.

Chemical Change

Any change that produces new substances with their own unique properties that are different from the properties of the starting substances.

Signs of Chemical Change

Indicators that a chemical change has taken place, including a color change, formation of a new phase (gas bubbles or solid precipitate), temperature change or other exchange of energy (such as light or glow), and a new odor.

Precipitate

A solid that forms during a chemical change.

Filtrate

The liquid that passes through a filter.

Law of Conservation of Matter

A rule stating that matter is neither created nor destroyed, but just changes form; this applies to all physical and chemical changes.