Question

using physical properties (page 48)

1. describe three steps that can be used to identify a material. ______________

Explanation:

• Step 1: Observe physical appearance
• Look at color, texture, and shape. These are basic visual clues. For example, a shiny, smooth material might be a metal like aluminum, while a dull, rough material could be a type of rock or concrete.
• Step 2: Test hardness
• Use a hardness scale (like Mohs scale for minerals). Try to scratch the material. If it can be easily scratched, it has low hardness (e.g., talc). If it is difficult to scratch, it has high hardness (e.g., diamond).
• Step 3: Check density
• Calculate density by measuring mass and volume ($\text{density}=\frac{\text{mass}}{\text{volume}}$). Different materials have characteristic densities. For instance, water has a density of $1\ \text{g/cm}^3$, while lead has a much higher density ($11.34\ \text{g/cm}^3$).

Answer:

1. Observe physical appearance (color, texture, shape).
2. Test hardness (using a hardness scale).
3. Check density (calculate using mass and volume).