Is rusting a physical or chemical change?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking whether rusting is a physical change or a chemical change. Rusting typically involves the reaction of iron with oxygen and water, leading to the formation of iron oxide, which indicates a chemical change.

More Information

Rusting is classified as a chemical change because it involves the reaction of iron with oxygen to form iron oxide, which is a new substance. This process alters the chemical properties and composition of the original material.

Tips

A common mistake is assuming rusting is a physical change because it involves a visible transformation of matter. However, physical changes do not alter the chemical composition of the material.

Sources

• Chemical and Physical Changes - LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
• Is rusting a chemical change? - Quora - quora.com
• Is rusting a physical or a chemical change? - BYJU'S - byjus.com