PSI Barbering Practice Exam

Rusting iron and burning wood are examples of a change in what type of properties?

1. Physical Properties

2. Chemical Properties

3. Electric Properties

4. Magnetic Properties

The correct answer is: Chemical Properties

Rusting iron and burning wood are prime examples of changes that involve chemical properties. When iron rusts, it undergoes a chemical reaction when it combines with oxygen in the presence of moisture, forming iron oxide, commonly known as rust. This alteration indicates a change in its chemical composition and characteristics, which is a hallmark of a chemical property. Similarly, the burning of wood is a combustion reaction where wood reacts with oxygen to produce heat and light, transforming it into carbon dioxide and ash. This process also involves a change in chemical composition, showcasing the original substance's transformation into entirely different substances. Understanding these properties is vital in distinguishing between changes that affect the internal structure and composition of materials (chemical properties) versus those that may only affect their physical appearance or state without changing their chemical identity (physical properties). The other options, such as electric and magnetic properties, do not pertain to the transformations occurring during rusting or burning.