5th Grade Science

A fun and engaging exploration of physical and chemical changes, Earth's systems, and scientific reasoning for 5th grade students.
Physical ChangesChemical ChangesEarth's Systems
Mixtures and SolutionsWeather and ClimateScientific Reasoning
Observing Changes at HomeProtecting Earth's SystemsWeather Tracking
Using Diagrams and ChartsPractice with Real-Life Scenarios
Physical ChangesChemical ChangesEarth's SystemsMixtures and Solutio...Weather and ClimateScientific ReasoningObserving Changes at...Protecting Earth's S...Weather TrackingUsing Diagrams and C...Practice with Real-L...
Basic Concepts

Physical Changes

What Are Physical Changes?

Physical changes are changes that affect the form or appearance of a substance but do not change its identity. The molecules stay the same, even if the state, shape, or size changes.

Common Types of Physical Changes

  • Changing States: Solid to liquid (melting), liquid to gas (evaporation), and so on.
  • Cutting or Crushing: Breaking a cookie in half or tearing paper.
  • Mixing: Combining sand and salt together.

How Do We Recognize Physical Changes?

  • The change is usually reversible.
  • No new substance is formed.

Real-Life Connections

Physical changes happen all around you! When you freeze water to make ice cubes or sharpen your pencil, you're seeing physical changes in action.

Why Are Physical Changes Important?

Understanding physical changes helps us separate mixtures, recycle materials, and cook food safely.

Examples

  • Melting an ice cube on a warm day.

  • Folding a piece of paper to make an airplane.

In a Nutshell

Physical changes alter the form or state of matter without creating something new.

Key Terms

Physical Change
A change that affects the form, not the chemical composition, of a substance.
State of Matter
The form (solid, liquid, gas) in which matter exists.
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Chemical Changes