Irreversible Changes
Explain that some changes result in the formation of new materials and are not usually reversible, such as burning, rusting, and reactions with acid
Teaching approaches
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Can your child explain why you can't un-burn a piece of toast or turn rust back into shiny iron, because a completely new material has been made?
Explain that some changes result in the formation of new materials and are not usually reversible, such as burning, rusting, and reactions with acid
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This concept
Check understanding
- Define an irreversible change as one that creates new materials that cannot be changed back
- Give at least three examples: burning, rusting, mixing bicarbonate of soda with vinegar
- Describe observable signs of irreversible change: gas produced, colour change, heat given off, new substance formed
“Can your child explain why you can't un-burn a piece of toast or turn rust back into shiny iron, because a completely new material has been made?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Matter & Materials
- Age range
- Ages 9–11
Standards