Is toasting a marshmallow a chemical or physical change

Answer 1

Toasting a marshmallow is primarily a chemical change. When you toast a marshmallow, it undergoes a process called caramelization, where the sugars in the marshmallow break down and form new compounds, resulting in a change in both color and flavor. This process alters the chemical structure of the sugars and creates new substances, which is characteristic of a chemical change. Additionally, the heat can also cause the proteins in the marshmallow to denature, further supporting the classification as a chemical change. While the physical appearance of the marshmallow changes (it becomes toasted and potentially charred), the key changes occurring are chemical in nature.