What Are Chemical Changes? — Reading Comprehension

A chemical change happens when one or more substances turn into something new. During a chemical change, the particles inside the matter mix together in a different way. This makes a new substance with different properties. Properties are special features like color, smell, or how something reacts.

One sign of a chemical reaction is that you cannot easily reverse it. For example, when you bake a cake, the dough rises and changes color. You cannot turn the baked cake back into raw batter! In this case, the flour, sugar, and eggs are called reactants. They mix together and change into a cake, which is the product.

Another common chemical change is rusting. When iron reacts with water and air, it forms a reddish-brown rust. This rust is a new substance. Burning wood is also a chemical change. The wood turns into ash, smoke, and gases. You cannot change the ash back into wood.

Some chemical changes give off energy, like heat or light. For example, fireworks use chemical reactions to make bright colors and loud noises. Sometimes, chemical changes can also make gases or change the temperature.

Chemical changes are important in our lives. They help us cook food, make medicines, and even clean our homes. Scientists study chemical changes to invent new materials and solve problems in our world.

Interesting Fact: The green patina on old copper statues, like the Statue of Liberty, is also made by a chemical change called oxidation!

What is a chemical change?

What are reactants?

What is an example of chemical change?

Why can't you turn ash into wood?

Why do fireworks make colors?

What can chemical changes release?

Chemical changes are always reversible.

What does 'properties' mean?