Which of the following is an example of only a physical change?
the smell of rotten eggs the green color of the Statue of Liberty the creation of table salt ice becoming vapor
Ice becoming vapor
The physical change among the options provided is "ice becoming vapor."
To determine which of the given options is an example of only a physical change, we need to understand the difference between physical and chemical changes.
A physical change refers to a change in the physical properties of a substance without forming any new substances. It may involve changes in size, shape, state of matter, or phase transitions, but the composition of the substance remains the same.
On the other hand, a chemical change involves the formation of new substances with different chemical properties. It usually involves a reaction that breaks and forms new chemical bonds.
Let's examine the options provided:
1. The smell of rotten eggs: This is an example of a chemical change because the odor of rotten eggs is due to the release of hydrogen sulfide gas, which is a new substance formed through a chemical reaction.
2. The green color of the Statue of Liberty: This is primarily a physical change as it is determined by the oxidation of the copper surface over time, which forms a layer of copper oxide. However, there can be minor chemical changes due to environmental factors, such as the presence of pollutants or patina formation.
3. The creation of table salt: This is an example of a chemical change. Table salt (sodium chloride) is formed by the combination of sodium and chlorine ions, creating a new substance with unique chemical properties.
4. Ice becoming vapor: This is an example of a physical change called sublimation, where a solid directly converts into a gas without going through the liquid state. The chemical composition of water remains the same.
Based on the explanations given, the example that represents only a physical change is "ice becoming vapor."