Properties of Matter and Energy

A set of flashcards covering key concepts and definitions related to the properties of matter and energy.

States of Matter

The distinct forms that different phases of matter take on: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma.

Solid

A state of matter where the substance has a fixed shape and volume.

Liquid

A state of matter with a fixed volume but no fixed shape, taking the shape of its container.

Gas

A state of matter without a fixed shape or volume, expanding to fill its container.

Plasma

A state of matter that is primarily found in the universe, consisting of ionized gases.

Mixtures

Combinations of two or more substances that can be physically separated.

Homogeneous mixture

A mixture with uniform properties throughout.

Heterogeneous mixture

A mixture that does not have uniform properties throughout.

Compounds

Pure substances made of two or more elements chemically combined.

Elements

Pure substances that cannot be chemically broken down into simpler substances.

Melting

The phase change where a solid turns into a liquid as temperature increases.

Freezing

The phase change where a liquid turns into a solid as temperature decreases.

Vaporization

The phase change where a liquid turns into a gas as temperature increases.

Condensation

The phase change where a gas turns into a liquid as temperature decreases.

Sublimation

The phase change where a solid changes directly into a gas.

Deposition

The phase change where a gas changes directly into a solid.

Physical Property

A characteristic of a pure substance that can be observed without changing its composition.

Chemical Property

A characteristic that describes how a substance interacts with other substances to form new substances.

Physical Change

A change that does not alter the chemical composition of a substance.

Chemical Change

A change that results in the formation of one or more new substances.

Conservation of Mass Law

The principle stating that mass cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction.

Antoine Lavoisier

The scientist who formulated the conservation of mass law.