Module 1 – Examining the Particles & Nature of Matter

Question-and-answer flashcards covering definitions of chemistry and matter, criteria for matter vs. non-matter, examples of each, and key related terms from Module 1.

What branch of physical science studies the composition, structure, properties, and changes of matter?

Chemistry

In chemistry, what tiny units and their interactions are of central concern?

Atoms and molecules

What is the definition of matter?

Anything that occupies space and has mass

The space occupied by matter is referred to as its __.

Volume

What do we call a small portion of matter, ranging from subatomic electrons to visible dust?

A particle

State the two criteria used to distinguish matter from non-matter.

(1) It has mass; (2) It occupies space (has volume).

Is sunlight matter? Why or why not?

No. Sunlight has no measurable mass and does not occupy space; it is energy.

Give three examples of matter mentioned in the lecture.

Any three of: tree, person, spider, computer, sandwich, fish, water, sword/iron blade.

Give three examples of non-matter cited in the lecture.

Any three of: time, sound, sunlight, rainbow, love, thoughts, gravity, microwaves, heat, memories, magnetism, lightning.

What simple question can you ask to decide if something is matter?

Does it have mass and occupy space? If yes, it is matter.

Are light and heat classified as matter or energy?

They are forms of energy; therefore they are non-matter.

Why doesn’t a rainbow qualify as matter?

A rainbow is merely the dispersion of light; it has no mass and does not occupy space.