Which of the following is an example of a physical change? a. melting ice cubes b. burning paper c. rusting iron d. burning gasoline

Step 1: Define the Problem

Identify which option represents a physical change rather than a chemical change.

Step 2: Break Down the Problem

• Physical Change: A change in the state or appearance of a substance without altering its chemical composition.
• Chemical Change: A change that results in the formation of new chemical substances.

Step 3: Apply Relevant Concepts

• Melting Ice Cubes (a): Ice changes from solid to liquid, but the chemical structure (H₂O) remains the same.
• Burning Paper (b): Paper reacts with oxygen to form new substances like carbon dioxide and ash.
• Rusting Iron (c): Iron reacts with oxygen to form iron oxide, a new substance.
• Burning Gasoline (d): Gasoline combusts to form new substances like carbon dioxide and water.

Step 4: Analysis, Verify and Summarize

• Melting Ice Cubes is a physical change because it involves a change of state without altering the chemical composition.
• The other options involve chemical reactions resulting in new substances.

Final Answer

a. melting ice cubes