Physical Properties: Definition
Physical properties are characteristics of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing the substance's chemical composition.
Here's a breakdown:
* Observable: You can see or perceive the property with your senses (e.g., color, texture, smell).
* Measurable: You can quantify the property using instruments (e.g., density, melting point, boiling point).
* No chemical change: The substance remains the same after the observation or measurement.
Examples of physical properties:
* Appearance: Color, shape, texture, luster
* State of matter: Solid, liquid, gas
* Density: Mass per unit volume
* Boiling point: Temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas
* Melting point: Temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid
* Solubility: Ability to dissolve in a solvent
* Conductivity: Ability to conduct heat or electricity
* Viscosity: Resistance to flow
* Hardness: Resistance to scratching
* Magnetism: Ability to be attracted to a magnet
Contrast with Chemical Properties:
Chemical properties describe how a substance interacts with other substances to form new substances. These involve chemical reactions, where the original substance undergoes a change in its composition. Examples include flammability, reactivity with acids, and pH.