Physical properties of matter are characteristics that can be observed or measured without changing the substance's chemical identity. These properties describe the physical state and behavior of matter and include:
- Color : The appearance or shade of a substance.
- Hardness : Resistance to scratching or deformation.
- Malleability : Ability to be shaped or hammered into thin sheets.
- Solubility : How well a substance dissolves in a solvent.
- Electrical Conductivity : Ability to conduct electricity.
- Density : Mass per unit volume, useful for identifying substances.
- Melting Point and Boiling Point : Temperatures at which a substance changes state.
- Odor : The smell of a substance.
- Volume : The amount of space occupied.
- State of Matter : Solid, liquid, or gas at a given temperature and pressure.
Physical properties can be classified as:
- Intensive properties : Do not depend on the amount of matter (e.g., density, color, melting point).
- Extensive properties : Depend on the quantity of matter (e.g., volume, mass).
Physical changes involve changes in these properties without altering the chemical composition, such as melting, freezing, or dissolving
. In summary, physical properties allow us to describe and identify matter based on measurable or observable traits without changing the substance itself.
