Physical Properties

2 Have you ever played the game 20 Questions? The goal of this
game is to gure out what object another person is thinking of
What You Will Learn by asking 20 yes/no questions or less.
Identify six examples of physical If you cant figure out the objects identity after asking 20
properties of matter.
questions, you may not be asking the right kinds of questions.
Describe how density is used to
What kinds of questions should you ask? You may want to ask
identify substances.
questions about the physical properties of the object. Knowing
List six examples of physical changes.
the properties of an object can help you find out what it is.
Explain what happens to matter
during a physical change.
Physical Properties
Vocabulary
The questions in Figure 1 help someone gather information
physical property
about color, odor, mass, and volume. Each piece of information
density
is a physical property of matter. A physical property of matter
physical change
can be observed or measured without changing the matters
READING STRATEGY identity. For example, you dont have to change an apples
identity to see its color or to measure its volume.
Mnemonics As you read this section, Other physical properties, such as magnetism, the ability
create a mnemonic device to help
you remember examples of physical to conduct electric current, strength, and flexibility, can help
properties. someone identify how to use a substance. For example, think
of a scooter with an electric motor. The magnetism produced
S8CS4.b Use appropriate tools and units by the motor is used to convert energy stored in a battery
for measuring objects and/or substances.
S8CS6.a Write clear, step-by-step instructions for
into energy that will turn the wheels.
conducting scientic investigations, operating a piece
List four physical properties. S8P1.d
of equipment, or following a procedure.
S8P1.d Distinguish between physical and chemical
properties of matter as physical (i.e., density, melting
point, boiling point) or chemical (i.e., reactivity,
combustibility).
S8P1.e Distinguish between changes in matter
as physical (i.e., physical change) or chemical (i.e., Could I hold it in my hand? Yes.
development of a gas, formation of precipitate, and Does it have an odor? Yes.
change in color).
Is it safe to eat? Yes.
Is it orange? No.
Is it yellow? No.
Figure 1 Asking Is it red? Yes.
questions about the Is it an apple? Yes!
physical properties of
an object can help you
identify it.

44 Chapter 2