Basic Chemistry: Mixtures, Bonds, Acids/Bases, and Water Properties

Vocabulary flashcards covering mixtures, chemical bonding, acids & bases, the pH scale, and the unique properties of water.

Mixture

A combination of substances that are physically blended without chemical bonding.

Suspension

A mixture with large particles that settle into layers; often labeled “shake before use.”

Colloid

A mixture with medium-sized particles that do not settle but scatter light (e.g., milk, blood).

Solution

A clear mixture with the smallest particles evenly distributed; does not settle out (e.g., sugar water).

Compound

A substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond together, opposite of a mixture.

Ionic Bond

Chemical bond where one atom transfers electrons to another, creating oppositely charged ions that attract (e.g., Na⁺ + Cl⁻ → NaCl).

Covalent Bond

Chemical bond in which two or more atoms share electrons (e.g., H₂ + O → H₂O).

Acid

A compound that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) in solution (e.g., HCl).

Base

A compound that releases hydroxyl ions (OH⁻) in solution (e.g., NaOH).

Hydroxyl Ion (OH⁻)

The negatively charged ion that characterizes bases.

Neutralization Reaction

Reaction between an acid and a base producing water and a salt.

pH Scale

Numeric scale that measures how acidic or basic a substance is based on H⁺ concentration.

Water

The most common inorganic substance in living tissue, exhibiting unique physical and chemical properties.

Polar Molecule

A molecule with opposite charges at each end; water’s polarity gives it special behaviors.

Cohesion

Attraction between molecules of the same substance; causes water molecules to stick together.

Adhesion

Attraction between molecules of different substances; allows water to cling to other surfaces.

Surface Tension

The ‘skin-like’ surface of a liquid that resists external force, letting insects walk on water.

Universal Solvent

Title given to water for its ability to dissolve many ionic and polar substances.

Expansion upon Freezing

Water becomes less dense when it freezes, causing ice to float.