Grades 6–8 · Decide whether each everyday change is physical or chemical, then flip to see the evidence.

Physical or Chemical Change?

Physical: it is still water, just a liquid now.

Chemical: it gives off light and heat, and ash and smoke are new substances.

Physical or chemical? A sheet of paper is crumpled.

Chemical: the bubbles are a new gas, carbon dioxide.

Physical or chemical? Baking soda is mixed with vinegar.

Chemical: rust is a new reddish-brown substance.

Physical or chemical? An iron nail rusts.

Physical: the sugar is still there, and you get it back if the water evaporates.

Physical or chemical? Sugar dissolves in water.

Physical: it is still wood, just smaller.

Physical or chemical? Wood is chopped into small pieces.

Chemical: the heat makes new substances, and you can't unbake it.

Physical or chemical? Cake batter is baked into a cake.

Physical: steam is still water, as a gas.

Physical or chemical? Water boils into steam.

Chemical: new substances form that give it a sour smell and taste.