The physical properties of matter are characteristics that can be observed or measured without changing the substance's chemical composition.
Here's a breakdown of common physical properties:
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Density: A measure of how much mass is contained in a given volume (mass per unit volume).
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Color: How matter reflects or emits light, as perceived by the eye.
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Hardness: Resistance to deformation, scratching, or indentation.
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Melting Point: The temperature at which a solid changes to a liquid.
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Boiling Point: The temperature at which a liquid changes to a gas.
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Electrical Conductivity: The ability of a substance to conduct electricity.
Other examples include:
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State of Matter: Solid, liquid, gas, or plasma.
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Odor: A substance's smell.
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Luster: How shiny or reflective a substance is.
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Malleability: The ability of a solid to be hammered or pressed into shapes without breaking.
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Ductility: The ability of a solid to be drawn into wires.
Physical properties are useful for identifying, describing, and classifying different types of matter. These properties differentiate one substance from another without changing the substance's fundamental identity.
