Is cooking a potato physical or chemical?

* Chemical changes involve the formation of new substances. When you cook a potato, the heat causes chemical reactions to occur within the potato. The starch molecules in the potato break down, and the potato changes in texture, taste, and appearance.

* Physical changes are temporary and reversible. For example, cutting a potato into pieces is a physical change. You haven't altered the chemical makeup of the potato, just its shape.

Key changes that occur when you cook a potato:

* Starch gelatinization: Heat causes starch granules in the potato to absorb water and swell, making the potato soft and fluffy.

* Maillard reaction: This is a complex chemical reaction that occurs between sugars and amino acids, contributing to the browning and flavor development in the potato.

* Breakdown of cell walls: Cooking softens the potato by breaking down the cell walls, making it easier to digest.

Because these changes are irreversible and involve the formation of new substances, cooking a potato is considered a chemical change.