# Explain the difference between a physical change and a chemical change. Include one example of each type of change in your answer.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 6.1 Physical and chemical changes · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. In a physical change, no new substance is formed (the change is reversible / the substance keeps its chemical identity)
2. In a chemical change, a new substance is formed (and the change is usually irreversible)
3. A correct, clearly stated example of a physical change (e.g. melting of ice, boiling of water, dissolving of salt in water, cutting of metal)
4. A correct, clearly stated example of a chemical change (e.g. burning of magnesium, rusting of iron, thermal decomposition of copper carbonate, reaction of acid with metal)

## Key terms

- [physical change](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/physical-change)
- [chemical change](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/chemical-change)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-the-difference-between-a-physical-8e98839f) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.