A characteristic property is a chemical term that assists one to recognise a material. For example, copper is the only element that has a melting point of 1083 degrees Celsius. Also, water is the only household compound that has a density of 0.98g/ml at a given temperature. However, measurements like mass cannot be called as characteristic.
Properties of a physical nature that are characteristic are density, electrical conductivity, melting point etc.
Chemically, properties that are characteristic for some compounds include Limewater, which adopts a cloudy appearance due to the addition of calcium carbonate. Cobalt chloride also changes colour from blue to pink due o reaction with water.
Characteristic properties can differentiate groups of compounds or elements as well. This is called as a group characteristic property. For example, alkali metals are characterised as low melting metals that are soft. Bases are capable of conducting electrical charge and change red litmus paper into blue.
Properties of a physical nature that are characteristic are density, electrical conductivity, melting point etc.
Chemically, properties that are characteristic for some compounds include Limewater, which adopts a cloudy appearance due to the addition of calcium carbonate. Cobalt chloride also changes colour from blue to pink due o reaction with water.
Characteristic properties can differentiate groups of compounds or elements as well. This is called as a group characteristic property. For example, alkali metals are characterised as low melting metals that are soft. Bases are capable of conducting electrical charge and change red litmus paper into blue.
