The word "chemical change" is spelled phonetically as /ˈkɛmɪkəl tʃeɪndʒ/. The first syllable "chem" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, followed by the "i" sound in the second syllable. The "al" in "chemical" is pronounced with a long "a" sound. The second word "change" starts with a "ch" sound, followed by the short "e" and "ɪ" sounds, and ends with the "dʒ" sound. This term refers to a process that involves a chemical reaction that results in a new substance or substances with different properties.
A chemical change refers to a process in which a substance undergoes a transformation at the molecular level, resulting in the formation of new substances with different chemical properties. It involves the breaking and rearranging of chemical bonds between atoms, leading to the creation of distinct chemical compounds. Such changes are often irreversible and give rise to new substances with unique characteristics.
During a chemical change, the original substance is converted into one or more different substances, often accompanied by the release or absorption of energy in the form of heat, light, or sound. This transformation can occur through various chemical reactions, such as combustion, oxidation, decomposition, or combination of different elements or compounds.
The distinguishing feature of a chemical change is the alteration in the composition and structure of the matter involved. The properties of the resulting substances differ significantly from those of the original substance, including changes in color, taste, smell, state of matter, reactivity, or toxicity.
Chemical changes are fundamental to many natural and artificial processes, including biological reactions, industrial manufacturing, food digestion, and product synthesis. They play a crucial role in shaping the world around us and are often studied and manipulated to develop new materials, drugs, technologies, and understand natural phenomena.
In summary, a chemical change implies a transformation of matter at the molecular level, resulting in the formation of new substances with distinct chemical properties, typically accompanied by the release or absorption of energy.
The word "chemical" comes from the Latin word "chemicus", which in turn comes from the Greek word "khemikos". The term "khemikos" referred to someone practicing the art of "chemy", which was the ancient Greek term for alchemy. Alchemy involved various chemical processes and attempts to transform substances.
The word "change" comes from the Old English word "cang", which meant "a turn or a twist". Over time, it evolved to also mean "alteration or transformation". So, when combined, the term "chemical change" refers to a transformation or alteration that occurs through chemical processes.