The following chart lists examples of evidence that can be seen after a change has taken place. Use the information given previously to determine if the evidence supports a physical or chemical change occurring. (6 points) Evidence of a Physical Change Evidence of a Chemical Change Ash is present after a bonfire. There is a sour smelling liquid present in a cup of milk that was left on the counter for 3 days. A balloon is much smaller after letting the air out. There is a loud sound after a firework explodes in the air. There is a liquid substance in a pot after putting in a chunk of butter. There is a brown banana on the counter that was originally yellow.

1 answer

To determine whether the evidence supports a physical or chemical change, we can analyze each piece of evidence provided:

Evidence of a Physical Change:

  1. A balloon is much smaller after letting the air out. - This indicates a change in volume but not the substance itself; thus, it is a physical change.
  2. There is a liquid substance in a pot after putting in a chunk of butter. - This suggests the melting of butter, which is a physical change as the chemical composition remains the same.

Evidence of a Chemical Change:

  1. Ash is present after a bonfire. - The formation of ash from burning indicates a chemical change as new substances are created (e.g., carbon dioxide, water, and ash).
  2. There is a sour-smelling liquid present in a cup of milk that was left on the counter for 3 days. - The sour smell is due to the fermentation of the milk, indicating a chemical change (bacterial growth and production of lactic acid).
  3. There is a loud sound after a firework explodes in the air. - The explosion involves a chemical reaction, producing gases and heat; therefore, it is a chemical change.
  4. There is a brown banana on the counter that was originally yellow. - The browning of the banana indicates a chemical reaction (oxidation), signaling a chemical change.

In summary:

  • Physical Changes: Balloon deflating, chunk of butter melting.
  • Chemical Changes: Ash from bonfire, sour milk, firework explosion, browning banana.

Overall, the evidence clearly distinguishes between physical and chemical changes based on the nature of the changes and the properties involved.