Describe each of the following as a physical or chemical property:
e. Propane gas is compressed to a liquid for placement in a small cylinder.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the difference between physical and chemical properties: A physical property is a characteristic of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing its chemical identity (e.g., state, color, density). A chemical property describes a substance's ability to undergo a chemical change, resulting in a new substance (e.g., flammability, reactivity).
2. Analyze the process described: Propane gas is being compressed into a liquid. This involves a change in the state of matter (from gas to liquid) due to the application of pressure.
3. Determine whether the chemical identity of propane changes: In this process, the propane remains chemically the same (C₃H₈). There is no chemical reaction or formation of a new substance.
4. Conclude that the process involves a physical property: Since the change is only in the state of matter and not in the chemical composition, this is a physical property.
5. Summarize: The compression of propane gas into a liquid for placement in a cylinder is an example of a physical property because it involves a change in state without altering the chemical identity of propane.

Key Concepts

Physical Property

A physical property is a characteristic of a substance that can be observed or measured without changing its chemical identity. Examples include color, density, melting point, and state of matter. In the context of propane gas being compressed, its ability to change from a gas to a liquid under pressure is a physical property, as it does not alter the chemical structure of propane.

Chemical Property

A chemical property describes a substance's ability to undergo a specific chemical change or reaction. This includes reactivity with other chemicals, flammability, and acidity. While compressing propane does not change its chemical properties, understanding its reactivity and combustion characteristics is essential when discussing its use as a fuel.

Phase Change

A phase change refers to the transition of a substance from one state of matter to another, such as from gas to liquid. This process involves energy changes and can be influenced by temperature and pressure. In the case of propane, compressing the gas into a liquid involves a phase change that allows it to be stored efficiently in a cylinder, demonstrating the principles of gas behavior under pressure.