GCSE (9-1) Chemistry - Topic 3.2 Energetics

activation energy

the minimum energy needed for a reaction to start.

bond breaking

the process of uncoupling the bonds between atoms. Energy is taken in during this process.

bond making

the process of coupling bonds between atoms. Energy is given out during this process.

combustion

a chemical reaction were a substance reacts with oxygen.

decimals

the place value indicating the amount of 1/10ths or 1/100ths represented.

endothermic

chemical reaction or process which takes in heat

exothermic

chemical reaction or process in which heat is given out

fraction

a number that is expressed as a number or parts of the total number of parts. For example, 2/3 means 2 parts of a total of 3.

integer

whole number

neutralisation

a reaction between an acid and a base or alkali, which produces salt and water.

photosynthesis

reaction in the cells of plants and algae that produces glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water

reaction profile

a chart that shows the energy of reactants and products in a chemical reaction.

product

substance produced at the end of a chemical reaction.

specific heat capacity

The energy needed to raise the temperature of a set mass of a substance 1⁰C

surroundings

the matter around the site of a chemical reaction into or from which energy is being transferred

thermal decomposition

the breaking apart of compounds using heat