Question

Explain how burning of a paper is different from tearing it.

Answer 1

Tearing of paper does not result in the formation of any new substance. The resulting pieces of paper will have the same properties as that of the original paper. Hence, this is a physical change. Whereas when the paper is burnt, it liberates heat and light and forms ashes. These ashes exhibit different properties from that of the original paper. Also it is a irreversible process. The change is permanent; hence, it is a chemical change.