A plant grows. Is that a chemical or physical change?

Changing the SIZE of a plant is a physical change but the process that produces energy for this is a chemical change.

The growth of a plant is considered a physical change. This is because the plant is altering its physical structure by increasing in size and developing new structures, such as leaves, stems, and roots. However, it is important to note that various chemical reactions and processes are taking place within the plant during its growth, such as photosynthesis, respiration, and cell division.

Determining whether a plant growing is a chemical or physical change is relatively straightforward. Let me explain how you can discern the nature of the change in this situation.

A physical change involves a transformation in the physical properties of a substance without altering its chemical composition. Examples include changes in size, shape, state of matter (solid, liquid, or gas), and phase transitions (such as melting, freezing, or evaporating).

On the other hand, a chemical change occurs when a substance undergoes a reaction that results in the formation of new substances with different chemical properties. This often involves the breaking and forming of chemical bonds.

In the case of a plant growing, it is considered a biological process that encompasses both chemical and physical changes. The growth of a plant involves various chemical reactions within the cells, such as photosynthesis, which is a complex process where sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide are converted into glucose and oxygen. This chemical change allows the plant to produce energy and build new structures.

Additionally, the physical changes associated with plant growth include an increase in size, height, and the development of new leaves, stems, and roots. These physical changes occur as a result of cell division and elongation through processes like mitosis, cell expansion, and differentiation.

Therefore, the growth of a plant represents a combination of chemical and physical changes, making it a complex biological phenomenon.