Unit 1: Exploring Matter Section 1.2: Physical and Chemical Properties

Neither, they both have the same mass! Matter Matter is anything that has mass and takes up space. Therefore, everything you can see, touch, smell, or taste. Mass is the amount of matter in an object. Mass is measured using a scale. Question: Which is heavier – a kilogram of feathers or a kilogram of rocks? Neither, they both have the same mass!

Physical Property A physical property is a characteristic of a substance that can be observed and measured without changing the identity of the substance. An example of a physical property would be the colour or hardness of a certain metal. The physical properties of materials play a significant role in determining practical uses for these substances.

Examples of Physical Properties Common physical properties: Density – the ratio of mass to volume. Hardness – resistance of a solid to be scratched. Solubility – ability of a substance to dissolve. Viscosity – measure of how easily a liquid flows.

Chemical Property Chemical properties describe the ability of a substance to react with another substance to form one or more new substances. When the chemicals housed in a glow stick are mixed, they undergo a chemical reaction that produces light.

Examples of Chemical Properties Common chemical properties: Combustibility – the ability of a substance to burn. Reactivity– the ability of a substance to react with other chemicals. Light sensitivity – ability of a substance to interact with light exposure.

What property is described by each of the following statements? A propane tank bursts into flames. A diamond can scratch glass. Ketchup flows slowly from a bottle. Sugar dissolves in my coffee. A photo of my dog has faded. Sandpaper is rough. Water boils at 100°C. The metal pan handle is very hot. combustibility hardness viscosity solubility light sensitivity texture boiling point conductivity