sit possible that a substance can undergo both reversible and irreversible changes? If yes, give 2 examples.

 

Answer:

  • Reversible changes are those which can be reversed back to the original state.
  • Irreversible changes are those changes that can not be reversed back.
  • The same material can undergo both reversible and irreversible changes.

Example 1 : Paper undergoing both reversible and irreversible changes.

  • Folding a paper into an airplane and unfolding it back to get the original paper is a reversible change.
  • Cutting a paper into smaller different shapes with scissors can not be reversed back to get the exact same paper. So, it is an irreversible change.

Example 2: Balloon undergoing both reversible and irreversible changes.

  • Blowing air into a balloon inflates it to a bigger size.
  • But, when the air comes out, the balloon turns back to its original shape and size. So, inflating a balloon is a reversible change.
  • On the other hand, bursting a fully inflated balloon can never be reversed to get the original balloon back. Therefore, bursting a balloon is an irreversible change.
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CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo