Question

Which of the following is not a physical property of sucrose?

1) solid at room temp
2) decomposes when heated
3) dissolves in water
4) tastes sweet

Answer 1

Decomposition when sucrose is heated is not a physical property, as physical properties do not change the chemical identity of the substance, unlike chemical properties.

Step-by-step explanation:

The property that is not a physical property of sucrose is 'decomposes when heated.' Physical properties of matter include those that can be observed and measured without changing the chemical identity of the substance. The properties 'solid at room temperature,' 'dissolves in water,' and 'tastes sweet' are all examples of physical properties because they describe the substance without altering its molecular structure.

However, decomposition due to heat involves a chemical change, suggesting a chemical property. This is supported by Exercise 1.4.1B, where flammability, a similar property involving a chemical reaction with heat, is listed as a chemical property.