Which of the following is a physical change? A) Rust forming on a nail B) A piece of paper burning C) Water boiling into steam D) Baking soda reacting with vinegar

Answer 1

The correct answer is C) Water boiling into steam.

This is a physical change because it involves a change in the state of matter (from liquid to gas) without altering the chemical composition of the water.

• A) Rust forming on a nail is a chemical change because it involves the reaction of iron with oxygen to form iron oxide (rust).
• B) A piece of paper burning is also a chemical change as it transforms the paper into different substances (ash, smoke, etc.) through combustion.
• D) Baking soda reacting with vinegar is a chemical change, as it produces new substances (carbon dioxide gas and other compounds) through the reaction.