Question

which of these is a physical change?

water freezes
something burns

Explanation:

Define physical and chemical changes

A physical change alters the state or appearance of a substance without changing its chemical composition. A chemical change results in the formation of one or more new substances with different chemical properties.

Analyze the given options

• "water freezes": This is a transition from liquid water to solid ice. The chemical formula remains \(H_2O\). Therefore, it is a physical change.
• "something burns": Combustion is a chemical reaction with oxygen that produces new substances like carbon dioxide and water vapor. Therefore, it is a chemical change.

Answer:

• water freezes (Correct answer)
• something burns