When water is absorbed by a paper towel, it is considered a physical change. Here’s why:
A physical change involves a change in the physical properties of a substance without altering its chemical composition. In this case, the water molecules are simply being absorbed into the fibers of the paper towel. The water remains H2O, and the paper towel retains its original chemical structure.
There is no chemical reaction taking place; the water is not being transformed into a different substance, nor is the paper towel undergoing any chemical changes. The absorption process is reversible—by drying the paper towel, the water can be evaporated, returning both the water and the paper towel to their original states.
In summary, the absorption of water by a paper towel is a physical change because it involves a change in the physical state or appearance of the substances without any alteration in their chemical identities.