Chapter 1: Problem 29

A white, crystalline material that looks like table salt releases gas when heated under certain conditions. There is no change in the appearance of the solid, but the reactivity of the material changes. a. Did a chemical or physical change occur? How do you know? b. Was the original material an element or a compound? Explain your answer.

Short Answer

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a. A chemical change occurred as evidenced by the release of gas and change in reactivity. b. The original material was most likely a compound, as it underwent a chemical change that resulted in different reactivity, something that is more typically observed in compounds compared to elements.

Step by step solution

Defining Physical and Chemical Changes

A physical change pertains to changes in the state or appearance of matter without altering the composition. This can include changes in size, shape, color, or state of matter. A chemical change, on the other hand, involves a change in the composition and usually results in the formation of a new substance. This is often marked by color changes, the production of a gas, or a change in temperature.

Identify the Change

Looking at the details of the problem, the release of gas when heated is indicative of a chemical reaction. This suggests that a new substance is likely being formed, which fits the description of a chemical change in matter. Despite the lack of change in the appearance of the solid, the change in reactivity provides enough evidence of a chemical change.

Distinguishing Elements and Compounds

An element is a substance that cannot be broken down further by ordinary chemical reactions. A compound, however, is a substance composed of two or more elements. Characteristics often include its ability to undergo certain reactions or the release of energy in the form of heat or light when broken down.

Identify the Material

The original substance in the problem is described as a white, crystalline material that releases gas when heated. The fact it can undergo such a change, further implies it was most likely a compound. Elements generally exhibit a minimal amount of reactivity compared to compounds

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Short Answer

Step by step solution

Defining Physical and Chemical Changes

Identify the Change

Distinguishing Elements and Compounds

Identify the Material

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