What is the result of a chemical change?

• A. A change in appearance of the original material
• B. The formation of new substances
• C. An increase in temperature
• D. A change in size only

Answer: (B)

The formation of new substances is a defining characteristic of a chemical change. During a chemical change, the molecular structure of the original substances is altered, leading to the creation of entirely different substances with distinct properties. This transformation is often accompanied by observable signs such as color changes, the production of gas, or the release or absorption of heat, but the key aspect is the actual formation of new chemical compounds that did not exist before the change occurred.

In contrast, changes in appearance, temperature, or size may occur during physical changes rather than chemical changes. For instance, a physical change might involve a substance changing state (e.g., ice melting into water), which does not alter the chemical identity of the substance. Therefore, the essence of a chemical change is the creation of new substances, making the formulation of new compounds the correct answer in this context.