Ch.1 - Matter, Measurement & Problem Solving

Problem 45

Chapter 1, Problem 45

Classify each property as physical or chemical. a. the tendency of ethyl alcohol to burn b. the shine on silver c. the odor of paint thinner d. the flammability of propane gas

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Understand the difference between physical and chemical properties: Physical properties can be observed or measured without changing the substance's identity, while chemical properties describe a substance's ability to undergo a chemical change.

Analyze property (a): 'the tendency of ethyl alcohol to burn'. This involves a chemical change where ethyl alcohol reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, indicating a chemical property.

Analyze property (b): 'the shine on silver'. This is an observable characteristic that does not involve changing the substance's identity, indicating a physical property.

Analyze property (c): 'the odor of paint thinner'. This is a sensory characteristic that can be observed without altering the chemical structure of the paint thinner, indicating a physical property.

Analyze property (d): 'the flammability of propane gas'. This describes the ability of propane to react with oxygen and burn, which is a chemical change, indicating a chemical property.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Physical Properties

Physical properties are characteristics of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing its chemical identity. Examples include color, odor, boiling point, and state of matter. These properties are used to describe the physical state and appearance of a substance.

Chemical Properties

Chemical properties describe a substance's ability to undergo chemical changes or reactions, resulting in the formation of new substances. Examples include reactivity with acids, flammability, and oxidation states. These properties are crucial for understanding how substances interact and transform during chemical reactions.

Flammability

Flammability is a specific chemical property that indicates how easily a substance can ignite and burn in the presence of an oxidizer, typically oxygen. It is an essential consideration in safety and handling of materials, as substances with high flammability pose greater risks in various environments.

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