The reaction of silver nitrate (AgNO₃) with hydrochloric acid (HCl) is a chemical change. This is because a new substance, silver chloride (AgCl), is formed as a result of the reaction. The definition of a chemical change is a process that involves the transformation of substances into one or more different substances, often accompanied by energy changes and observable effects.
Starting products: Silver nitrate (AgNO₃) and hydrochloric acid (HCl).
End products: Silver chloride (AgCl) and nitric acid (HNO₃).
Starting appearance: Silver nitrate is a colorless crystal or solution, and hydrochloric acid is a clear, colorless liquid.
End appearance: Silver chloride is a white precipitate that forms in the solution, while nitric acid remains in solution.
The observable evidence of this chemical change is the formation of the white precipitate of silver chloride, which indicates a new substance has been created.