What Are Physical Changes?

Physical changes are changes that affect the form or appearance of a substance but do not change its identity. The molecules stay the same, even if the state, shape, or size changes.

Common Types of Physical Changes

• Changing States: Solid to liquid (melting), liquid to gas (evaporation), and so on.
• Cutting or Crushing: Breaking a cookie in half or tearing paper.
• Mixing: Combining sand and salt together.

How Do We Recognize Physical Changes?

• The change is usually reversible.
• No new substance is formed.

Real-Life Connections

Physical changes happen all around you! When you freeze water to make ice cubes or sharpen your pencil, you're seeing physical changes in action.

Why Are Physical Changes Important?

Understanding physical changes helps us separate mixtures, recycle materials, and cook food safely.