Physical Properties and Physical Changes

Distinction Between Chemical and Physical Properties

• Chemical properties and physical properties represent two fundamental and distinct categorizations of matter and its characteristics.

Physical Properties

• Definition: A physical property is defined as a characteristic of matter that is conserved without changing the composition of the substance.

• Sensory and Observational Identification: Physical properties can be directly perceived, observed, and identified using direct physical senses:

  • Visual: Properties that can be seen.

  • Gustatory: Properties that can be tasted.

  • Tactile: Properties that can be felt.

Physical Changes

• Definition: A physical change is characterized specifically as a changing of state (phase change).

• Core Characteristic: During a physical change, the physical state or form of matter is altered while maintaining and conserving the underlying chemical composition of the substance.