The melting of an ice cube in a glass of water is an example of a

Rationale

The melting of an ice cube in a glass of water is an example of a physical change.

When an ice cube melts, it undergoes a transition from solid to liquid without altering its chemical composition. This process is a classic example of a physical change, where the state of matter changes, but the substance remains the same at the molecular level.

A (physical change) CORRECT

This choice is correct because melting is a process that only changes the state of water from solid to liquid. The chemical structure of water (H2O) remains unchanged throughout this process, making it a clear example of a physical change.

B (chemical reaction) YOUR ANSWER

This option is incorrect as a chemical reaction involves a transformation that alters the chemical structure of a substance, resulting in the formation of new substances. In the case of melting ice, no new substances are formed; the water remains H2O whether it is in solid or liquid form.

C (metabolic process) YOUR ANSWER

A metabolic process refers to the biochemical reactions that occur within living organisms to maintain life, such as digestion or respiration. Melting ice does not involve any biological reactions or living organisms, rendering this choice irrelevant to the context of the question.

D (decay mechanism) YOUR ANSWER

This choice is also incorrect because a decay mechanism refers to processes related to the breakdown of substances, often in a biological or radioactive context. The melting of an ice cube does not involve decay or breakdown; it is simply a phase change of matter.

Conclusion

The melting of an ice cube in a glass of water exemplifies a physical change, characterized by a change in state without altering the chemical identity of the substance. All other choices incorrectly suggest processes that involve chemical transformations, biological reactions, or decay, which do not apply to the melting of ice. Understanding this distinction is vital in differentiating between physical and chemical changes in various contexts.

The melting of an ice cube in a glass of water is an example of a

The melting of an ice cube in a glass of water is an example of a physical change.

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