General Chemistry 2.0 - Chapter 1 Summary

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions from the General Chemistry 2.0 Chapter 1 lecture notes.

Matter

Anything that has mass and occupies space.

Element

The simplest form of matter with distinct physical and chemical properties that cannot be broken down chemically.

Compound

A chemical combination of elements that has its own set of properties and a definite composition.

Pure Substance

A material with a definite composition that can be either an element or a compound.

Mixture

A physical combination of two or more pure substances that are not chemically bonded.

Homogeneous Mixture (Solution)

A mixture that is uniform in composition and the components are evenly distributed.

Heterogeneous Mixture

A mixture in which the composition is not uniform throughout.

Significant Digits

The digits in a measurement that carry meaningful information about its precision.

Density

A measure of mass per unit volume, often expressed in g/mL or kg/m³.

Scientific Method

A systematic process involving observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and revision based on results.

Hypothesis

An initial explanation for an observed phenomenon that can be tested.

Theory

A widely accepted explanation of phenomena based on experimental evidence and observations.

Law

A statement that describes a phenomenon that always occurs under certain conditions, without explanation.

Temperature Scale

A system of measuring temperature, commonly Fahrenheit, Celsius, or Kelvin.

Dimensional Analysis

A mathematical technique used to convert units and solve problems using the units of measurements.

Physical Property

Characteristics of a substance that can be observed without changing its chemical composition.

Chemical Property

The ability of a substance to undergo a chemical change.