To say that one substance is different from another, you can compare their physical and chemical properties. Here are some key ways to distinguish substances:
1. Physical Properties
- Appearance: Color, texture, and state of matter (solid, liquid, gas).
- Density: Mass per unit volume.
- Melting and Boiling Points: Temperatures at which the substance changes state.
- Solubility: How well the substance dissolves in a solvent.
- Hardness: Resistance to scratching or deformation.
2. Chemical Properties
- Reactivity: How the substance reacts with acids, bases, or other chemicals.
- Flammability: Whether the substance can catch fire.
- pH Level: Acidity or alkalinity.
- Toxicity: Harmfulness to living organisms.
- Chemical Composition: The elements or compounds that make up the substance.
3. Molecular Structure
- Different substances have different molecules or atomic arrangements, which can be identified through techniques like spectroscopy or crystallography.
Summary
By observing and measuring these properties, you can confidently say that one substance is different from another. For example, water and oil differ in density, solubility, and chemical behavior, making them distinct substances. If you want, I can help you with specific examples or tests to compare substances!
