Based on the results of this lab, write a short paragraph that summarizes how to distinguish physical changes from chemical changes.

Answer:

To distinguish between physical and chemical changes, look for evidence of new substances being formed. A physical change involves a change in the state or appearance of a substance, such as melting ice or dissolving sugar, without changing its chemical identity. In contrast, a chemical change results in the formation of new products, often indicated by signs such as a change in color, the production of a gas (bubbles), the formation of a precipitate, or a change in temperature (release or absorption of energy). Unlike most physical changes, chemical changes are generally difficult to reverse.