Question

Is a gummy bear in potassium chlorate a physical or chemical change ?

Answer 1

The process of a gummy bear in potassium chlorate is a chemical change.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a gummy bear is placed in potassium chlorate and ignited, it undergoes a chemical change rather than a physical one. In this specific case, the gummy bear serves as a fuel, and the potassium chlorate acts as an oxidizing agent. The reaction between them results in the production of heat, light, gases, and new substances, indicating a chemical transformation.

During the reaction, the gummy bear's molecular structure is altered as it reacts with potassium chlorate, forming new compounds. The chemical change is characterized by the breaking and forming of chemical bonds, leading to the creation of different substances than those present initially. This contrasts with physical changes, which involve alterations in the state or appearance of a substance without changing its chemical composition.

The chemical equation for the reaction between a gummy bear (mainly composed of sugar) and potassium chlorate can be represented as follows:

`\[ \text{C}_6\text{H}_(12)\text{O}_6 (\text{gummy bear}) + 6\text{KClO}_3 (\text{potassium chlorate}) \rightarrow 6\text{CO}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} + 3\text{KCl} + 3\text{K}_2\text{CO}_3 \]`

This balanced chemical equation illustrates the chemical change occurring, where the gummy bear reacts with potassium chlorate to produce carbon dioxide, water, potassium chloride, and potassium carbonate. In conclusion, the interaction between a gummy bear and potassium chlorate represents a chemical change due to the formation of new substances with distinct properties.