What distinguishes a chemical property from a physical property?

A chemical property is distinct from a physical property because it specifically relates to a substance's ability to undergo chemical transformations, which are linked to its chemical structure. For instance, properties such as reactivity with acids, flammability, and oxidation states indicate how a material can change into different substances through chemical reactions. These properties are inherent to the substance at a molecular level and cannot be observed without engaging in a chemical change.

In contrast, physical properties, like shape, color, density, and melting point, describe the physical characteristics of a substance and can often be observed or measured without altering the chemical composition of the material. Understanding this distinction is crucial in chemistry, as it helps in predicting how substances will react under certain conditions.