Meaning: This quote by Wilhelm Ostwald, a renowned scientist and Nobel laureate in chemistry, addresses the concept of physical and chemical changes in substances. Ostwald was a prominent figure in the field of physical chemistry, and his work significantly contributed to our understanding of chemical processes and reactions. In this quote, he challenges the traditional view that changes in the form and properties of a substance without a change in composition are purely physical in nature, suggesting that they may also involve chemical processes.

The quote begins with the assertion that the well-known fact of a substance's form and properties altering without a change in composition was previously explained by the formal view that it was a physical, not a chemical, process. This refers to the conventional understanding that changes in the physical state or appearance of a substance, such as the transformation of water from liquid to solid (ice) or gas (steam), are purely physical changes that do not involve alterations in the chemical composition of the substance. This distinction between physical and chemical changes is a fundamental concept in chemistry and has been traditionally used to explain various transformations observed in matter.

Ostwald's statement challenges this traditional view by suggesting that the changes in form and properties of a substance may not be solely attributed to physical processes but may also involve chemical transformations. This challenges the long-held belief that changes in the state or appearance of a substance are exclusively physical and do not entail alterations in its chemical composition. By questioning this traditional perspective, Ostwald encourages a reevaluation of the nature of changes in substances and prompts a deeper exploration of the underlying processes at play.

Wilhelm Ostwald's perspective on this matter reflects his pioneering contributions to the field of physical chemistry, where he sought to bridge the gap between the disciplines of physics and chemistry. His work focused on understanding the fundamental principles governing chemical reactions and the behavior of matter, and he was a proponent of applying physical methods and theories to elucidate chemical phenomena. In this context, Ostwald's quote can be seen as a call to integrate the principles of both physical and chemical processes in explaining transformations in substances, challenging the traditional compartmentalization of these disciplines.

Furthermore, Ostwald's emphasis on the potential involvement of chemical processes in alterations of a substance's form and properties highlights the interconnected nature of physical and chemical changes. It underscores the idea that the boundaries between physical and chemical transformations may not always be distinct and that a comprehensive understanding of these processes requires a holistic approach that considers both aspects. This perspective aligns with the interdisciplinary nature of physical chemistry, which seeks to unravel the intricate interplay between the physical and chemical properties of matter.

In conclusion, Wilhelm Ostwald's quote challenges the traditional distinction between physical and chemical changes in substances by suggesting that alterations in form and properties may involve chemical processes, not just physical ones. This perspective encourages a reevaluation of the nature of transformations in matter and emphasizes the interconnectedness of physical and chemical phenomena. Ostwald's quote exemplifies his innovative thinking and his efforts to integrate the principles of physics and chemistry, contributing to the advancement of our understanding of the fundamental processes governing matter.