Which term describes matter that changes shape temporarily but can return to its original state?

The correct term to describe matter that changes shape temporarily but can return to its original state is physical change. A physical change involves alterations in the form or appearance of a substance, such as bending, stretching, or compressing, without altering its chemical composition. This means that after the external force is removed or the conditions are changed, the material can revert back to its initial shape or state.

For example, when a rubber band is stretched, it temporarily changes shape, but when released, it returns to its original form. This characteristic of reversing the change is a fundamental attribute of physical changes.

In contrast, a chemical change results in substances that have different chemical structures and cannot easily return to their original form, while mechanical and thermal changes are more specific to physical states and processes impacting matter but may not necessarily imply the ability to revert back to the initial state.