Chem Notes Properties

Physical vs. Chemical Properties

  • Physical properties can be observed without changing the substance's identity.

  • Chemical properties can only be observed by changing the substance's chemical identity.

  • Density is a physical property.

  • Boiling point is a physical property.

  • Melting point is a physical property.

  • Solubility (how it dissolves) is a physical property.

  • Flammability is a chemical property.

  • Reactivity with water or acid is a chemical property.

  • Toxicity is a chemical property.

Intensive vs. Extensive Properties

  • Intensive properties do not depend on the amount of matter present.

  • Extensive properties change depending on the amount of matter present.

  • Density is an intensive property.

  • Temperature is an intensive property.

  • Color is an intensive property.

  • Mass is an extensive property.

  • Volume is an extensive property.

  • Length is an extensive property.

States of Matter (Microscopic View)

  • Solids have a definite shape and a definite volume.

  • Solid particles are tightly packed and vibrate in fixed positions.

  • Liquids have an indefinite shape but a definite volume.

  • Liquid particles are close together but can slide past each other.

  • Gases have an indefinite shape and an indefinite volume.

  • Gas particles are far apart and move rapidly in random directions.

Physical vs. Chemical Changes

  • Physical changes alter the form of a substance but not its chemical identity.

  • Chemical changes create entirely new substances with new chemical properties.

  • Phase changes (melting, boiling, freezing) are always physical changes.

  • Dissolving sugar in water is a physical change.

  • Burning wood is a chemical change.

  • Rusting iron is a chemical change.

  • Color changes often indicate a chemical change.

  • Gas bubble formation often indicates a chemical change.

  • Precipitate formation (solid forming from liquids) indicates a chemical change.

  • Temperature changes without outside heating indicate a chemical change.