Q
QuestionChemistry

How is sugar dissolving in water a physical change?
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Answer

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Step 1
: Understand the definition of a physical change

A physical change is a change in the state or properties of a substance that does not involve a change in its chemical composition.

Step 2
: Examine the process of sugar dissolving in water

When sugar (sucrose) dissolves in water, the water molecules surround the sugar molecules, forming a solution. The sugar molecules become evenly distributed among the water molecules, and as a result, the sugar appears to disappear.

Final Answer

Sugar dissolving in water is a physical change because it does not result in a new substance with a different chemical composition. The sugar molecules remain intact, and the water molecules form a new arrangement around the sugar molecules, creating a homogeneous solution with new properties.