Burning a piece of paper results in the formation of new substances. Which type of change does this statement describe?

• A. Chemical change
• B. Phase change
• C. Physical change
• D. Mixture formation

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between physical and chemical changes: Physical changes affect the form of a substance but not its chemical composition, while chemical changes result in the formation of new substances with different properties.
2. Identify what happens when paper burns: Burning paper produces new substances such as ash, gases (like carbon dioxide), and smoke, indicating a change in chemical composition.
3. Recognize that the formation of new substances is a hallmark of a chemical change, not just a physical change or phase change.
4. Eliminate other options: Phase change involves changes between solid, liquid, and gas states without new substances forming; mixture formation involves combining substances without chemical reactions.
5. Conclude that burning paper is a chemical change because it results in new substances being formed.