Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change
Know the major Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change, learn how things get transformed from one state to another. Join PW's NEET online coaching for NEET preparation
Praveen Kushwah27 May, 2025
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Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change : Knowing the difference between physical and chemical changes is super important for getting ready for NEET . NEET is a big test for medical school, and understanding how things change in chemistry is a key part of it.
This topic helps us figure out how substances behave and react. If you want to be a doctor, this knowledge is crucial for understanding how drugs work, how our bodies function, and more. So, learning about physical and chemical changes is like building a strong foundation for answering tricky chemistry questions in NEET 2024 and getting closer to your dream of becoming a doctor.| NEET Chemistry Syllabus | NEET Chemistry Important Questions with Answers |
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Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change Overview
The difference between physical and chemical changes lies in the transformation. Physical changes involve alterations in the form, state, or properties of matter without changing its chemical composition. Examples include changes in state like melting or freezing. On the other hand, chemical changes result in the formation of entirely new substances with distinct chemical compositions. This involves the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, leading to the creation of novel compounds. The rusting of iron and the combustion of wood are illustrations of chemical changes.Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change
Check out the major Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change in the table provided below based on all the parameters. This will help in building a strong concept about this topic, so that can achieve more marks in the final NEET Exam.| Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change | ||
|---|---|---|
| Parameters | Physical Change | Chemical Change |
| Definition | Alteration in the form or state of matter without changing its chemical composition. | Involves a transformation in the chemical composition of substances, resulting in the formation of new substances. |
| Reversibility | Usually reversible, the original substance can often be recovered. | Generally, irreversible, new substances are formed, and it's challenging to revert to the original state. |
| Energy Changes | Typically involves a transfer of energy (e.g., heat or light) but does not result in the creation or consumption of energy. | Often involves the absorption or release of energy. The change may be exothermic (releases energy) or endothermic (absorbs energy). |
| State of Matter | Changes in the physical state (solid, liquid, gas) may occur. | No significant changes in the state of matter; may involve changes in color, odor, or other observable properties. |
| Chemical Bonds | No new substances are formed, and the original chemical bonds remain intact. | New chemical bonds are formed or existing ones are broken, leading to the creation of new substances. |
| Examples | Melting ice, boiling water, dissolving salt in water. | Burning wood, rusting of iron, digestion of food. |
| Mass Conservation | Mass is conserved; the total mass of the system remains constant. | Mass may not be conserved due to the formation of new substances with different masses. |
| Notable Observations | Changes in appearance, texture, or state without a change in identity. | Formation of new substances with distinct properties. |
| Representation | Represented using physical state symbols (s, l, g) or state changes. | Represented using chemical equations indicating reactants and products. |
What is Physical Change?
A physical change is a transformation in the form, state, or properties of matter that does not alter its chemical composition. In physical changes, the substances involved remain the same at the molecular level.What is Chemical Change?
A chemical change, also known as a chemical reaction, involves the formation of new substances with different chemical compositions. During a chemical change, original substances undergo a rearrangement of atoms, resulting in the creation of entirely new molecules.Difference Between Physical and Chemical Change FAQs
Can physical changes be reversed?
Yes, physical changes are often reversible. In these changes, the original substance can usually be recovered, as there is no change in the chemical composition. Examples include melting ice, boiling water, or dissolving salt in water.
How do chemical changes differ in terms of energy involvement?
Chemical changes often involve the absorption or release of energy. This can manifest as heat, light, or other forms of energy. The change may be exothermic, releasing energy, or endothermic, absorbing energy during the reaction.
Are there observable differences between physical and chemical changes?
Yes, there are observable differences. Physical changes may involve alterations in appearance, texture, or state without a change in identity, whereas chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with distinct properties, such as changes in color, odor, or the release of gas.
Why is mass conservation different in physical and chemical changes?
In physical changes, mass is conserved; the total mass of the system remains constant because no new substances are formed. In chemical changes, mass conservation may not hold true due to the formation of new substances with different masses, leading to a change in the overall mass of the system.
What is the main difference between physical and chemical changes?
The primary distinction lies in the alteration of matter. Physical changes involve a transformation in the form or state of a substance without changing its chemical composition, while chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with different chemical compositions.
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