Is drain cleaner dissolving a hair clog in the bathtub a chemical or physical change?
by all means chemical
Determining whether drain cleaner dissolving a hair clog in the bathtub is a chemical or physical change requires understanding the definitions of these terms.
A chemical change is a process that results in the formation of new chemical substances. It typically involves the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, leading to a change in the composition and properties of the substances involved.
A physical change, on the other hand, is a process that alters the form, appearance, or phase (solid, liquid, or gas) of a substance without changing its chemical composition or properties.
In the case of drain cleaner dissolving a hair clog in the bathtub, it is a chemical change. Drain cleaners contain chemicals, such as strong acids or bases, that react with the organic material present in the hair clog. These chemical reactions break down the molecular structure of the hair, causing it to dissolve into different substances altogether, such as water-soluble compounds.
To determine this, you could:
1. Learn about the ingredients of drain cleaners and their reactions with organic matter. Understanding the chemical composition of drain cleaners and how they interact with substances like hair will provide insight into whether a chemical change occurs.
2. Observe the physical changes that occur during the process. Take note of any changes in the appearance, texture, or color of the hair clog when it comes into contact with the drain cleaner. If there are noticeable alterations, it suggests a chemical change has taken place.
In conclusion, the dissolving of a hair clog in the bathtub through the use of drain cleaner is a chemical change.