Chemical change

Chemical Change is a process where one or more substances are altered into one or more new and different substances. In a chemical change, the chemical properties of a substance are modified, leading to a change in the composition, configuration and arrangement of the atoms.

Overview

A chemical reaction is the most common example of a chemical change. During a chemical reaction, the bonds between atoms break and new bonds form, resulting in one or more new substances with different properties. The substances that undergo change are called reactants, and the new substances formed are called products.

Characteristics of Chemical Change

Chemical changes are characterized by the formation of new substances and the making and breaking of strong chemical bonds. Some signs of a chemical change include change in color, formation of a precipitate, formation of a gas, odor change, temperature change, and changes in properties.

Types of Chemical Change

There are several types of chemical changes, including combustion, oxidation, decomposition, synthesis, and displacement reactions.

Combustion

Combustion is a chemical change that involves a substance reacting with oxygen to produce heat and light.

Oxidation

Oxidation is a chemical change where a substance loses electrons and increases its oxidation state.

Decomposition

Decomposition is a chemical change where a compound breaks down into two or more simpler substances.

Synthesis

Synthesis is a chemical change where two or more simple substances combine to form a more complex substance.

Displacement

Displacement is a chemical change where an element in a compound is replaced by another element.

Chemical Change vs Physical Change

A chemical change differs from a physical change in that it results in a change in the substance's composition, while a physical change alters the state or appearance of the substance without changing its composition.

See Also

• Chemical reaction
• Physical change
• Chemical properties
• Chemical bonds