What type of change occurs in a physical reaction?

In a physical reaction, the identity of the substance remains the same, which is why this option is correct. During physical changes, the material may change its form, state, or appearance without altering its chemical composition. For example, when ice melts to water, it undergoes a physical change—its state changes from solid to liquid, but it is still water (H₂O) both before and after the change.

The other options describe processes more characteristic of chemical reactions. In a chemical reaction, substances are transformed into different substances, chemical bonds are broken and formed, and the properties of the substances often change significantly. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the correct answer emphasizes that the substance retains its identity during a physical change.