What Is a Non-Example of a Physical Change? Understanding Chemical vs Physical Changes

Learn why burning wood is not a physical change but a chemical change and the key differences between these processes.

1,665 views

Burning wood is a non-example of a physical change. In this process, wood undergoes a chemical change as it reacts with oxygen to form ash, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. Unlike physical changes, chemical changes result in new substances with different properties.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is a physical change? A physical change alters the form or appearance of a substance without changing its chemical composition, such as melting or tearing.
  2. Why is burning wood not a physical change? Burning wood causes a chemical reaction with oxygen, producing new substances like ash, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, which means it is a chemical change.
  3. What are some examples of physical changes? Examples include melting ice, tearing paper, dissolving sugar in water, and freezing water.