CHEM 003 General Chemistry I - Chapter 1: Matter, Energy, Measurement & Course Overview

Flashcards cover Chapter 1 concepts: matter, states, classifications, properties, changes, energy, COAST, and course policies.

What is matter?

The physical material of the universe that has mass and occupies space.

What is a property?

A characteristic that allows us to identify or distinguish a type of matter.

What are atoms?

The building blocks of matter; the almost infinitesimally small units that combine to form molecules.

What is a molecule?

Two or more atoms joined together in a specific arrangement.

What is an element?

A substance that cannot be decomposed into simpler substances and is made of one kind of atom.

What is a compound?

A substance composed of two or more elements; contains two or more kinds of atoms.

What is a mixture?

A combination of two or more substances in which each retains its chemical identity.

Describe the gas state of matter.

Has no fixed volume or shape and uniformly fills its container.

Describe the liquid state of matter.

Has a definite volume but takes the shape of its container.

Describe the solid state of matter.

Has a definite shape and volume and is not easily compressible.

What is a homogeneous mixture?

A mixture with uniform composition and appearance throughout.

What is a heterogeneous mixture?

A mixture with nonuniform composition and distinct regions.

What is a pure substance?

A substance that is either an element or a compound.

Is fruit salad an element, compound, homogeneous or heterogeneous?

A heterogeneous mixture.

Is filtered air in a scuba tank a homogeneous or heterogeneous mixture?

A homogeneous mixture.

Is helium gas an element?

Yes, helium is an element.

Is dry ice (CO2) a compound?

Yes, dry ice is a compound.

Intensive vs. extensive properties — what is the difference?

Intensive properties do not depend on amount; extensive properties do.

Physical vs. chemical properties — what is the difference?

Physical properties can be observed without changing the substance; chemical properties involve change into substances.

What is a physical change?

A change in appearance without changing the substance's identity.

What is a chemical change?

A transformation into a chemically different substance.

Are melting point and malleability physical or chemical properties?

Physical properties.

Are solubility in aqua regia and cyanide dissolution physical or chemical properties?

Chemical properties.

What is energy in chemistry?

The capacity to do work or transfer heat.

What is work?

Energy transferred when a force causes displacement.

What is heat?

Energy used to increase the temperature of an object.

What is kinetic energy?

The energy of motion; relevant to atoms and molecules.

What is potential energy?

Stored energy; in bonds, springs, or raised objects.

What does COAST stand for in problem solving?

Collect and Organize; Analyze; Solve; Think About It.

What are the Chapter 1 learning outcomes?

Know states of matter; convert Celsius and Kelvin; use scientific notation; apply SI base units and dimensional analysis; understand density; use significant figures; distinguish accuracy vs precision.

How do Celsius and Kelvin temperature scales relate?

Kelvin is the absolute scale; Celsius is relative. Conversion: K = C + 273.15.

What is the relationship between density and dimensional analysis?

Density uses derived units formed from SI base units via dimensional analysis (e.g., kg/m^3).

What are the three classical states of matter and their basic properties?

Gas: no fixed volume/shape; fills container. Liquid: definite volume; takes container shape. Solid: definite shape and volume; incompressible.

What is the difference between physical and chemical changes?

Physical changes alter appearance without changing composition; chemical changes form a new substance.

What is the difference between accuracy and precision?

Accuracy is closeness to the true value; precision is reproducibility or consistency.

How many regular exams are in the course?

Three regular exams.

What percentage does the final exam contribute to the grade?

25%.

What percentage is the homework contribution, and how many are dropped?

15% with the lowest two homework grades dropped.

What percentage are the quizzes, and how many are dropped?

10% with the lowest two quizzes dropped.

How many instructional weeks and days are in the course?

14 instructional weeks and 29 instructional days.

What are Chapter 1 topics described in the notes?

Introduction to Matter, Energy, and Measurement; Chapter 1 material.

What is the definition of energy as used in chemistry?

The capacity to do work or transfer heat.