Final answer:
In a physical change, the particles can arrange in different ways, but the mass stays the same and no new bonds form between atoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a physical change, certain aspects of matter can change; however, the chemical identity of the substance remains the same. Important characteristics of a physical change include the following:
- Arrangement of particles: These can change, such as when water turns from liquid to gas. The molecules move apart, but the actual water molecules remain intact, meaning H₂O remains H₂O.
- Conservation of mass: The total mass, along with the number of atoms and molecules, remains unchanged during a physical change.
- Energy changes: While energy may be absorbed or released, these energy changes are typically smaller than those in chemical changes and do not result in the formation or breaking of bonds.
Given this information, the correct response to the question, "Which can occur in a physical change?" is B) The particles can arrange in different ways, as the mass remains constant and the atoms do not form new bonds.