Which is an example of a physical change?

Which is an example of a physical change?

• A. Chopping wood
• B. Fireworks
• C. Vinegar & baking soda reaction
• D. Iron rusting

Answer: (A)

A physical change means changing size, shape, or state of matter without forming a new substance. Chopping wood changes its size and shape, but the wood’s chemical makeup stays the same, so no new material is produced. The other scenarios involve chemical changes: fireworks rely on chemical reactions to release energy and create new substances; vinegar and baking soda produce a gas and new compounds; iron rusting forms rust. Because chopping wood changes form without a chemical change, it’s the best example of a physical change.

A physical change means changing size, shape, or state of matter without forming a new substance. Chopping wood changes its size and shape, but the wood’s chemical makeup stays the same, so no new material is produced. The other scenarios involve chemical changes: fireworks rely on chemical reactions to release energy and create new substances; vinegar and baking soda produce a gas and new compounds; iron rusting forms rust. Because chopping wood changes form without a chemical change, it’s the best example of a physical change.