Matter, Scientific Investigation & Laboratory Techniques Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to the particle model of matter, scientific investigation steps, solutions, measurement units, and basic laboratory techniques highlighted in the lecture notes.

Scientific Model

A representation—physical, graphical, or computer-based—used to explain or predict phenomena that are too small, large, complex, or remote to observe directly.

Particle Model of Matter

The theory stating that all matter is made of tiny particles that are in constant motion, have spaces between them, and behave differently in solids, liquids, and gases.

Pure Substance

Matter made of only one kind of particle; every particle is identical to the others in that substance.

Solid

State of matter in which particles are closely packed, arranged in a fixed pattern, and vibrate in place.

Liquid

State of matter in which particles are close together but have spaces that let them move past one another and take the shape of their container.

Gas

State of matter in which particles are far apart, move rapidly in all directions, and fill the entire volume of their container.

Heating (Particle Behavior)

Process that adds energy to matter, causing particles to move faster, spread farther apart, and often change state.

Melting

Change of state from solid to liquid as particles gain energy, vibrate more, and overcome fixed positions.

Condensation

Change of state from gas to liquid as particles lose energy, move closer together, and slow down.

Solution

A homogeneous mixture composed of a solute dissolved in a solvent.

Solute

The substance that is dissolved in a solution.

Solvent

The substance that does the dissolving, usually present in the greatest amount in a solution.

Concentration

A quantitative expression of the amount of solute per unit volume of solution (e.g., grams per 100 mL).

Solubility

The maximum amount of solute that can dissolve in a given quantity of solvent at a specific temperature; generally increases with temperature for solids.

Standard Unit

An internationally agreed-upon measurement unit, such as meter for length, gram for mass, or Celsius for temperature.

Meter (m)

The SI base unit for measuring length.

Gram (g)

The SI unit commonly used for measuring mass.

Celsius (°C)

The metric temperature scale where water freezes at 0° and boils at 100° under standard conditions.

Scientific Investigation

A systematic process for answering questions that includes defining a problem, planning and conducting experiments, collecting data, and drawing conclusions.

Aim or Problem

The statement that defines what a scientific investigation is trying to discover or solve.

Materials and Equipment

The complete list of items and tools required to perform an experiment.

Method or Procedures

The ordered, detailed steps followed to conduct an experiment so it can be replicated.

Results (Including Data)

The section of a report that records observations and measurements collected during an experiment.

Conclusions

The part of a scientific report that analyzes data, states whether the hypothesis was supported, and summarizes what was learned.

Acid

A substance that turns blue litmus paper red; common examples include vinegar and lemon juice.

Base (Alkali)

A substance that turns red litmus paper blue; examples include ammonia and baking soda.

Litmus Paper

A pH indicator paper used to test whether a substance is acidic or basic by color change.

Pipette

A laboratory tool used to transfer small, measured volumes of liquid by squeezing to fill and releasing to dispense.

Test Tube Holder

A clamp-like tool used to safely hold and move hot or reactive test tubes.