Physical properties are characteristics that can be observed and measured without changing the composition of the material. These properties include color, density, odor, and shape. Knowing which physical properties can be measured can give us insight into the composition of a material and how it interacts with the environment.
Color
Color can be used to identify a material's composition and is one of the most recognizable physical properties. Color is composed of a visible spectrum of hues that can be measured using a spectrophotometer. Color can also indicate physical changes in a material, such as oxidation.Density
Density is the mass of a material per unit volume and is determined by the composition of the material. Density can be measured by weighing a sample of the material and calculating its volume. Density is an important physical property to measure as it affects how materials interact with each other, such as when they are mixed or when they float in a liquid.Odor
Odor is the smell of a material and is often used to identify a substance. Odor can be measured by using a gas chromatograph, which can detect the composition of the volatile compounds in a material. Odor is an important physical property to measure as it can indicate the presence of hazardous compounds that can be harmful to humans and the environment.Shape
Shape is the three-dimensional form of a material and can be measured using a variety of tools, such as calipers and rulers. Shape can be used to identify a material's composition and is an important physical property to measure as it affects how materials interact with each other.Comparison
| Physical Property | Measured by |
|---|---|
| Color | Spectrophotometer |
| Density | Weighing and volume calculation |
| Odor | Gas chromatograph |
| Shape | Calipers and rulers |