What describes a chemical change? bending a wire burning paper melting ice freezing water
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The Deep Dive
Burning paper is a classic example of a chemical change because it transforms the paper into different substances, such as carbon dioxide and ash, through the process of combustion. Unlike physical changes, where the material retains its original chemical composition, burning alters the molecular structure completely, making it irreversible! On the other hand, bending a wire is a physical change—it’s all about shape without altering the material’s fundamental properties. If you were to heat the wire, you could even return it to its original form, showcasing the malleability of metals while keeping their chemical identity intact!