Unit 1: Chemical Thinking Study Notes

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering basic chemical classification, phase changes, energy, separation methods, and the particulate model of matter.

Pure Substance

Matter with constant composition.

Mixture

Two or more substances with varying composition.

Homogeneous

A mixture with uniform composition.

Heterogeneous

A mixture where composition varies throughout.

Triple Point

The point on a phase diagram where all three phases coexist.

Critical Point

The point on a phase diagram where liquid and gas become indistinguishable.

Vapor Pressure Boiling Point

Boiling occurs when vapor pressure equals atmospheric pressure.

Volatile liquids

Liquids that have lower boiling points.

Filtration

A separation method based on particle size.

Distillation

A separation method based on differences in boiling points.

Particulate Model Assumptions

1. Matter is made of tiny particles. 2. Particles move constantly and randomly. 3. Particles interact through attractive and repulsive forces.

Kinetic Energy

$$KE = \frac{1}{2}mv^2$$

Temperature

Measures average kinetic energy.

Ideal Gas Relationship

$$P = k_B\frac{NT}{V}$$

Emergent Properties

Properties such as density, viscosity, boiling point, and malleability that arise from interactions among many particles.

Potential Energy

Energy that comes from interactions between particles.

Atoms

The building blocks of matter.

Molecules

Contain two or more bonded atoms.

Elements

Contain one type of atom (e.g., Ar, N│).

Compounds

Contain two or more types of atoms (e.g., H│O, CO│).

1 calorie

$$4.184\,joules$$

Energy added vs. released

Energy added is positive; energy released is negative.

Phase Changes

Process including melting, freezing, vaporization, condensation, sublimation, and deposition during which temperature remains constant.